IV Sedation
Dr. Sims and his staff work hard to make sure that you have a comfortable, positive experience, and that's why we are pleased to offer IV sedation for surgical and nonsurgical periodontal and implant procedures. We recognize that some of our patients may feel anxious or apprehensive about receiving care. Feeling anxious about receiving care should never prevent you from seeking the treatment you need.
Individualized IV sedation is safe and effective
There are three different types of sedation used in dentistry: Nitrous Oxide, Oral Sedation and IV Sedation. IV sedation provides you the greatest comfort during surgical and nonsurgical periodontal and implant procedures.
How IV Sedation works
Dr. Sims will request that you not eat for six hours prior to your sedation appointment. You will need someone to accompany you to your appointment because you will not be able to drive home. When you arrive at our office, our staff will assist you in checking in and will then escort you to a private room where you'll be treated.
Dr. Sims will gently start an IV and administer medication to help you into a comfortable state of relaxation. When your treatment is complete, you will wake up with little or no memory of the appointment. Using IV Sedation, we are able to complete many different procedures, including complex surgical procedures.
Common questions about IV Sedation
We understand that you may have many questions about IV Sedation before receiving treatment. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about IV Sedation:
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Will I feel anything during my treatment?
In most cases, patients do not feel anything. There is very little discomfort, and many patients wake up feeling relaxed and comfortable with almost no memory of the treatment.
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Is IV Sedation the same as being unconscious?
No. You will still be conscious and able to respond but you will be in a deep state of relaxation.
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Is IV Sedation safe?
IV Sedation is a safe and effective way for many patients to receive treatment. Prior to your appointment for IV Sedation , Dr. Sims will provide you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
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How long will it take the IV Sedation to wear off?
The time it takes for the sedatives to wear off depends on the dose you've received, how long your treatment is, and how quick your own body can recover. Because being under sedation causes drowsiness, it is required that you have a family member or friend drive you to and from your appointment. After your treatment, you will not want to drive, drink alcohol, or operate machinery for at least 12 hours.
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Am I a good candidate for IV Sedation?
Any patient, from children to adults, undergoing a surgical procedure and those who experience dental anxiety during nonsurgical procedures are good candidates for IV Sedation. If you have any of the following fears or concerns, ask Dr. Sims about IV Sedation:
- Extreme dental anxiety, or fear of visiting the dentist
- Fear of needles and/or shots
- Past traumatic dental experience
- Inability to handle the smells or noises of being at a dentist's office
- Overly sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or trouble getting numb
- Need for a more complex dental treatment
- Self-conscious about your teeth
- Desire for a more comfortable dental treatment
If you feel that you could benefit from IVV Sedation dentistry at your next appointment, please contact us and let us know how we can better accommodate your needs.