What Is IV Sedation and How Can It Ease My Dental Anxiety | If you’re wondering how to reduce dental anxiety, you’re not alone. Experts estimate that 36% of the population struggles with dental fear or anxiety.
We all know how important it is to care for our oral health, but that does little to ease the anxiety of an office visit. If you’ve been doing some research, you might be wondering, “Is IV sedation right for me?”
What is IV sedation, exactly? What is in IV sedation, and how does it work? We’ll answer those important questions and more, so take a deep breath and keep reading.
What Is IV Sedation?
As this IV sedation dentist explains, this treatment is a form of “conscious” sedation. Also called twilight sleep, it’s a type of anesthesia that helps nervous patients to relax. You’re not completely asleep, but time will pass very quickly and it’s likely you won’t remember anything about the procedure.
When you arrive for your appointment, the dentist will insert a tiny needle in your vein (usually in the hand). Then he’ll start the flow of sedatives into your bloodstream. Within moments, you’ll be deeply relaxed and almost in a sleep-like state.
During the procedure, the staff will monitor your oxygen levels and heart rate. Although you’re relaxed, you’ll be awake enough to respond to questions or requests. It takes several hours for the effects of the sedation to wear off, so you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home.
What Else Should I Know About IV Sedation?
Still wondering if IV sedation is right for you? Here are three factors to consider that could help you decide.
- IV Sedation Is Fast & Effective
If you suffer from extreme dental fear, laughing gas or oral sedatives probably aren’t strong enough.
With IV sedation, you feel the effects within minutes and remain in an almost dream-like state the entire time. Most patients don’t even remember the procedure afterward, which could be a real blessing if you’ve had bad experiences in the past.
- The Many Benefits of IV Sedation
Reducing your anxiety is just one of many benefits of IV sedatives. It’s also ideal for:
- People with a strong gag reflex
- People with sensitive teeth and gums
- People who struggle to get comfortable or numb
- People who need more than one procedure
IV sedation allows your dentist to focus and get the work done faster. Rather than coming in for multiple procedures, you can choose sedation and get everything done at one time.
- Your Overall Health Will Improve
There’s a direct link between your oral health and the rest of your body. When you delay necessary dental treatments because of fear, you’re placing the rest of your health at risk.
IV sedation allows you to get the dental work you need without the ever-present fear and anxiety. You’ll also be more likely to return and continue a good routine of oral care, which will keep you healthier in the long run.
Should I Get IV Sedation?
If you’ve been wondering how to reduce dental anxiety, IV sedation could be the answer you’re looking for. It’s safe, effective, and it will ensure you get the care you need — without the accompanying fear!
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