Is IV Sedation Safe?

Many people are phobic about going to your dentist in Justin for checkups and are even scared of a single dental appointment. Fortunately, there are many sedation dentistry options for people with dental phobia or anxiety, and this includes IV sedation.

If you’re a patient with dental phobia and are nervous about your next dental visit or surgery, this type of sedation is a good option. But is IV sedation safe? Read on to learn the basics of this method, its benefits, its effects, and how it differs from general anesthesia.

What is IV Sedation?

This is an anesthetic medication that is introduced into the patient’s veins through a tiny needle into the bloodstream. This method helps patients feel less nervous, relaxed, and more comfortable during a dental procedure. IV sedation is the preferred option of sedation dentistry because it offers several benefits.

Benefits of IV Sedation

• IV sedation at Valor Dental is completely safe.
• The patient remains awake and aware of what is going on during IV sedation.
• It saves treatment time.
• IV sedation is a simpler method to keep patients calm and comfortable compared to general anesthesia.
• Recovery is faster.
• The treatment causes partial memory loss, which makes patients not remember the details of their procedure.

What is the Difference between General Anesthesia and IV Sedation?

Sometimes, people confuse general anesthesia with IV sedation. Though both methods effectively use IVs, there are some distinct differences between the two. The most notable difference between general anesthesia and IV sedation is how deeply the former sedates you more than the latter.

Often, general anesthesia uses a combination of IV drugs and gas to render patients completely unconscious once the medication takes effect. You will not regain consciousness until the anesthesia wears out. The use of an endotracheal tube is necessary to support breathing during your dental surgery. This makes it difficult to attend to your teeth, which is why dentists rarely use general anesthesia.

With IV sedation, you will remain conscious even when the medication takes effect. You’ll be aware of your surrounding and can respond to verbal cues and physical touch. Plus, you will continue breathing on your own without the help of an endotracheal tube. This makes IV sedation popular for dental procedures like dental implants, oral surgery, and bridges & crown replacements.

What are the Temporary Side Effects of IV Sedation?

Potential side effects of IV sedation are similar to other forms of sedation, though they are still fewer than with general anesthesia. They include:

• Short memory loss
• Dizziness and nausea
• Slowed response time
• Low blood pressure
• Depressed respiratory system

More on IV Sedation in Justin, TX

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment with a dentist to learn the benefits of IV sedation and determine whether it is the right option for you. Contact Valor Dental online or call our office at (214) 254-3763 to discuss your dental needs with our dentists, Dr. Greg Kiene and Dr. Chris Merkley.

‍