Intravenous (IV) Dental Sedation

What Is Intravenous Dental Sedation?

Intravenous, or IV, dental sedation involves administering sedative medication through a vein to help you feel relaxed during dental treatment.

At GreenTree Dental & Implant Clinic in Paignton, IV dental sedation can be considered for suitable patients who experience dental anxiety, phobia, a sensitive gag reflex or concerns about longer or more intensive dental procedures.

IV dental sedation is a form of conscious dental sedation. You remain conscious during treatment, but the medication is intended to help you feel calm and relaxed.

Who May Consider IV Dental Sedation?

IV dental sedation may be discussed with patients who have:

• Dental anxiety or phobia
• Needle phobia
• A hypersensitive gag reflex
• Concerns about prolonged treatment
• Anxiety about more intensive dental procedures
• Difficulty tolerating dental treatment

Every patient is assessed individually. A dental sedation consultation is required before treatment.

What Happens Before IV Dental Sedation?

Dental Sedation Consultation

Before IV dental sedation is planned, you will have a detailed consultation with your dental team.

Your medical and dental history will be reviewed, and you will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns.

Treatment Assessment

The proposed dental procedure will be considered alongside your individual circumstances.

Your sedationist will determine whether IV dental sedation is appropriate and explain what the appointment will involve.

Preparation Instructions

If IV dental sedation is suitable, you will receive instructions about preparing for your appointment. These instructions should be followed carefully.

How Is IV Dental Sedation Given?

IV dental sedation is administered through a vein, usually using a small cannula.

The sedative medication is given so that its effects can be managed during the appointment.

You remain conscious during treatment, but you should feel more relaxed and less anxious.

The dental procedure itself is carried out separately using the appropriate local anaesthetic and clinical techniques.

Will I Be Awake During IV Dental Sedation?

Yes. IV dental sedation is conscious dental sedation, which means you remain awake.

You may feel sleepy, relaxed or less aware of what is happening around you. Patients can generally communicate with the dental team during treatment.

Your individual response to dental sedation can vary, so your sedationist will explain what to expect during your consultation.

Which Dental Treatments Can Be Carried Out Under IV Dental Sedation?

Depending on your individual circumstances, IV dental sedation may be considered for:

Restorative Treatment

This can include fillings and other restorative procedures where dental sedation is appropriate.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment and extirpations may be carried out with dental sedation for suitable patients.

Crowns and Bridges

Certain restorative procedures involving crowns and bridges may be performed under dental sedation.

Extractions

Some dental extractions may be carried out with IV dental sedation. Certain cases may also require input from an oral surgeon.

The decision depends on the individual patient and proposed procedure.

How Can IV Dental Sedation Help with Dental Anxiety?

For some patients, anxiety can make it difficult to attend appointments or tolerate dental treatment.

IV dental sedation may help create a more relaxed state during the procedure. This can make treatment more manageable for suitable patients.

It does not eliminate the need for appropriate dental treatment or replace local anaesthetic where required.

Is IV Dental Sedation Safe?

Dental sedation has been used in dentistry for many years, with established protocols designed to help reduce and manage potential risks.

A detailed assessment before treatment is an important part of the process. Your medical history, current medication and individual circumstances can be considered before dental sedation is provided.

Your sedationist will discuss any relevant risks and answer your questions before treatment.

What Happens After IV Dental Sedation?

You will receive specific instructions following treatment.

Dental sedation can affect alertness, coordination and judgement for a period after the appointment. Follow your dental team's instructions carefully and make the arrangements advised for getting home and recovering after dental sedation.

IV Dental Sedation at GreenTree Dental & Implant Clinic

GreenTree Dental & Implant Clinic provides IV dental sedation for suitable patients following consultation and assessment.

If you feel anxious about dental treatment or are concerned about a longer procedure, speak to our team about whether IV dental sedation may be appropriate for you.