Dental phobia is a very common condition that is shared with approximately 15% of the population in the United States. Of this percentage, there is a smaller subset for whom the very thought of having a dental procedure performed fills them with such anxiety and dread that they refuse to schedule an examination. If you fit into this category, you may be a good candidate for IV dental sedation.
There are a range of sedation types available, ranging from mild sedation to deep sedation. IV sedation is avoided if possible, but for patients who are scheduled for more complicated procedures, or who suffer from extreme dental phobia, this may be a viable option. IV sedation can either result in the patient remaining conscious, or in the case of sleep dentistry IV sedation, the patient going into a relaxed sleep-like state.
Unlike oral sedation, which can be administered as a gas or in pill form, IV sedation is administered through your vein. Once the sedation is administered, patients will feel results very quickly. Many patients who receive IV sedation experience amnesia and do not remember the dental procedure being performed. It is important to be aware that dentists who deliver IV sedation require special training, so it is not an option at all clinics.
One common misconception is that sedation is used to eliminate the pain of dental procedures. The pain is actually eliminated through administration of a local anesthetic. The dental sedative is used to decrease your level of awareness so that you will be more relaxed and feel less or no pain while the procedure is being performed.
How to Prepare for IV Sedation
Prior to having your procedure performed and IV sedation administered, it is a good idea to avoid eating or drinking for at least eight hours prior to your procedure. Be sure to discuss any additional recommendations from your dentist, as you may need to stop taking certain medications before your procedure as well.
Following your procedure, it is common to feel slightly groggy. As such, it is important to have a friend or family member at your appointment to drive you home once the procedure is complete. If possible, try to ensure that you do not have additional obligations the day of your procedure.
Am I a Candidate for IV Sedation?
To qualify as a viable candidate for IV sedation, patients will need to be in good general health. Though unlikely, some patients have a greater risk of experiencing adverse effects to sedation, and elderly patients are at an increased risk of experiencing side effects. As such, it is common practice for elderly patients to receive lower doses.
Ultimately the decision of whether or not you are a good candidate for IV sedation will have to be made by your dentist. Because there is a greater risk of side effects or negative reactions compared to other forms of sedation, your dentist may encourage you to consider alternative options, such as nitrous oxide or other types of oral sedation.
More information on Sedation Dentistry : How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
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