Many instances of dental anxiety stem from previous bad experiences at the dentist. Whether you had a painful visit a few years ago or just last week, the fear persists and can affect how you feel about any dentist moving forward. But not all dentists are made the same. At Riviera Dental Care, we put your comfort and care first. For patients with severe dental anxiety or those who are undergoing long, intensive procedures, we offer IV sedation dentistry. This is one of our strongest sedation options that helps patients like you stay calm throughout your procedure while still staying awake and safe.
What Is IV Sedation Dentistry?
There are several different types of sedation dentistry. At our office, we offer a variety of sedation methods, with IV sedation being the strongest. However, it’s important to note that it does not put you to sleep.
In dental care, we typically need patients to be awake and responsive. If someone is asleep, it’s harder for them to keep their mouth open and follow instructions. If we need you to move your tongue or tilt your head, you need to be able to hear and understand us.
Instead of putting you to sleep, IV sedation releases anti-anxiety and relaxing medications directly into your bloodstream. This method of sedation comes with a variety of advantages, such as:
Fast-acting effects- Easily monitored vitals
- Small period of amnesia
- Deep sense of relaxation
Once you’re comfortable, we can perform your dental care without anxiety getting in the way. IV sedation is a great option for patients with severe dental anxiety or who will be undergoing a long oral surgery procedure.
How IV Sedation Works at Our Office
If we decide to use IV sedation dentistry, we will take the time to explain exactly what we’ll do, how you’ll feel, and how to prepare.
Most often, we’ll tell patients to wear comfy clothes and avoid eating and drinking for around 8 hours before the sedation. We may ask you to stop taking your medications the night before, unless we determine a medication is an exception to this rule. At our office, we’ll need your complete medical history and to be notified of any changes to your medical well-being beforehand.
On the day of your appointment, please have a trusted adult drive you to our facility. Once you’re ready, we will have a trained anesthesiologist administer the IV. Almost immediately, you’ll begin to feel the effects. But remember, IV sedation will not put you to sleep. Instead, you’ll feel deeply relaxed and unaware of the sensations around you. The anesthesiologist will monitor your levels throughout the entire procedure, tracking your blood pressure and breathing.
Afterward, you’ll likely feel drowsy for some time. We will provide your driver with explicit care instructions, and they will take you straight home, where you’ll wait for the sedation to wear off safely. For the 24 hours after treatment, be sure to take it easy. Patients who underwent IV sedation should avoid stressful activity, alcohol, and driving. Over time, the effects will wear off, and you will remember little to nothing about the actual procedure itself.
Are You a Good Candidate for IV Sedation Dentistry?
It’s important to note that not everyone is eligible for IV sedation. Before we decide on this method, we will perform a health evaluation and may send you to your primary care physician for clearance.
Good candidates for IV sedation dentistry include:
- People with a lot of dental anxiety
- People undergoing intensive treatment
- People with a strong gag reflex
Not-good candidates for IV sedation dentistry may include:
- People with respiratory disorders
- People with uncontrolled cardiovascular disease
- People who are pregnant
- Elderly patients or those with a slower metabolism
At your appointment with us, we will assess all of these factors to determine your eligibility. If it isn’t safe to use IV sedation, we may look for another alternative to keep you calm during treatment.
Visit Riviera Dental Care in Foley, AL, for Safe and Effective Sedation!
If you suffer from severe dental anxiety, we may recommend using IV sedation dentistry. Unlike other sedation methods, this treatment is administered via your bloodstream and requires a trained anesthesiologist. At Riviera Dental Care, we’ll have a professional on-site and make sure you’re prepared the day of your treatment. Book a consultation at our office (free for any dental implant inquiries) to discuss sedation methods and find a solution that works for you.
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