IV Sedation: Kick Dental Anxiety to the Curb
Today, more than 15% of people report experiencing dental fear and anxiety. For some, it’s a fear of needles or of being judged for the condition of their teeth. For others, the sound of the equipment, a strong gag reflex or sensitivity that makes even a routine cleaning uncomfortable.
But no matter the specific fear, dental anxiety can be so intense people delay treatment. And that’s not only a cycle that’s difficult to break; delaying ongoing dental care can result in the need for more invasive treatments when you go.
IV sedation, sometimes called twilight sedation, is a type of conscious sedation that can significantly diminish your anxiety by helping you feel relaxed. If you’re a candidate for IV sedation, here’s what you can expect.
Consultation and Assessment
If you’re interested in IV sedation, talking to your dentist is your first step. During this appointment you can share why IV sedation is appealing. Also be prepared to share a detailed medical history, including any medications you’re taking and information about past and present medical conditions.
Before You Arrive
Before your appointment, your dentist will give you a list of instructions. These may include:
- Avoiding food or drinks six to eight hours before the procedure
- Removing contacts, jewelry, and nail polish
- Stopping medications, if possible, before the procedure (there can be exceptions to this rule)
- Wearing comfortable and loose-fitting clothing
It’s also important to bring someone with you to your appointment. They can help you remember important details and drive you home after the procedure
During Your Procedure
Dentists offering IV sedation have a highly trained staff to administer and monitor the sedation. After assessing the veins in your hands and arms, they will apply some numbing cream to a small area. Then, they’ll insert a small needle in that spot. The needle will stay in (don’t worry, you won’t feel it) throughout the procedure. An intravenous tube that delivers the sedation will be connected to the needle.
With IV sedation, you’ll be conscious throughout the procedure. This means you’ll be able to respond to your dentist and staff, but you’ll have little awareness of what’s happening. You will feel a deep sense of relaxation, perhaps be a little drowsy and, most importantly, calm. Many people describe it as being in a dream-like state.
After Your Procedure
After IV sedation, you may not remember parts or any of your dental procedure. It’s common to feel drowsy and groggy, and this feeling may last for up to 24 hours. You may have a headache, feel nauseous, or feel a little dizzy. You may also say or do out-of-character things. For all these reasons, having a family member or friend drive you home is crucial.
It’s important to relax at home after IV sedation. Your dentist will give you take-home instructions. It’s highly recommended you don’t go to work, engage in strenuous activity, operate heavy machinery (this includes your car), make important decisions, or drink alcohol for 24 hours.
Help with Your Dental Anxiety
If you experience dental anxiety, we’re here to help. IV sedation can be a powerful tool in ensuring on-time dental care and your overall oral health. If you’re curious about IV sedation, schedule a consultation at Hammock Bay Dental today. Our highly trained staff will tell you if you’re a candidate and walk you through every step of the process.