Many people experience anxiety or fear when facing a dental procedure, so sedation becomes a regular part of the experience. IV sedation, or intravenous sedation, is one of the most effective methods to alleviate the anxiety and fear that you might go through before a procedure. Sedation offers the opportunity for patients to stay relaxed during stressful dental procedures.
- What is IV sedation for anesthesia?
- Which is stronger IV sedation or general anesthesia?
- Are you awake during IV sedation?
- How fast do you fall asleep with IV sedation?
- Do you feel pain with IV sedation?
- Is IV sedation the same as being put to sleep?
- Do you breathe on your own under IV sedation?
- Why can’t you drink water before IV sedation?
What is IV sedation for anesthesia?
IV sedation is a kind of sedative that is administered into the bloodstream through the vein. This method allows for quick and controlled sedation. Therefore, it helps patients feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. IV sedation can range from moderate to deep sedation. For example, a patient can be sedated from the state of being awake yet relaxed to where the patient is just nearly conscious, though can be awakened.
Which is stronger IV sedation or general anesthesia?
IV sedation and general anesthesia serve different purposes. General anesthesia results in complete unconsciousness, which prepares the patient for more extensive surgical procedures. On the other hand, IV sedation does not allow the patient to reach a state of full unconsciousness, which allows for a safe procedure, quicker recovery, and fewer side effects.
Are you awake during IV sedation?
When IV sedation is administered, most patients stay awake, though in a state of deep relaxation. This is great if the doctor wants you to be able to respond to simple instructions. In addition, it leaves you with little to no memory of the dental procedure. For those who experience high levels of anxiety, this is an ideal option.
How fast do you fall asleep with IV sedation?
IV sedation works very quickly. Patients typically feel the effects of the IV sedation within minutes, even moments. The process feels as if you were simply tired and fell asleep, or close to it, depending on which you undergo (IV sedation or general anesthesia). First, you start to feel drowsy and relaxed, and depending on the level of sedation, you may even drift off to sleep.
Do you feel pain with IV sedation?
This is hardly the case. The primary benefit of IV sedation is that it significantly reduces the sensation of pain. The sedation itself does not eliminate pain. However, it works with local anesthetics to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Is IV sedation the same as being put to sleep?
As mentioned above, IV sedation and general anesthesia are different and often confused as being the same. IV sedation leaves you close to unconscious but not quite since you are still able to be directed by dentists while they do the procedure.
Do you breathe on your own under IV sedation?
Yes. Patients under IV sedation never cease breathing on their own. This is why doctors may prefer IV sedation over general anesthesia, as it may require help with breathing.
Why can’t you drink water before IV sedation?
You cannot drink water before IV sedation because aspiration during the procedure is much more likely. For this reason, it is important to avoid eating or drinking before undergoing IV sedation. Be sure to follow the guidelines provided by your dentist on when you must stop eating and drinking before the procedure.
Get the Best in Dental Care with AZ Family Dental
For the best practices in oral health, come to AZ Family Dental! Our group of expert health professionals offers the best care with the latest and most thorough sedation techniques, including IV sedation.
If you need further assistance, please call us:
- Glendale Office: (623) 777-2020
- Cave Creek Office: (623) 303-8522
- Phoenix Office: (602) 878-6169