Could IV Sedation Help My Dental Anxiety?

Are you fearful or anxious about visiting the dentist, even for routine exams and cleanings? You’re not alone. In fact, an estimated 22 percent of adults in the United States skip their dental appointments because they are afraid of treatment. The good news is that your dentist has a solution that may help. Intravenous (IV) sedation is a way to help you achieve a deeply relaxed state so you can remain comfortable enough to undergo dental treatment. Here’s a closer look at this smile-saving treatment, and how you can determine if you qualify for it.

What is IV Sedation?

Intravenous (IV) sedation is a treatment delivered through an IV tube in your hand or arm. This is a form of conscious sedation, so although you will be more comfortable, you will still be awake and able to respond to questions or follow instructions such as to close your lips so your dental team can suction saliva, or open wider so they can better access your mouth.

The effects of IV sedation last for the duration of treatment, making it ideal for patients with severe anxiety or who are undergoing a longer procedure. Once the IV is removed, you will gradually begin to feel more alert over the next few hours. Please note that you will need a ride home with a trusted friend or family member following IV sedation. No using rideshares, cabs, or public transportation are permitted.

What are the Benefits of IV Sedation?

With IV sedation, you can experience a deeper calm than with other types of sedatives. This means that if you are extremely anxious or afraid, you may find better success with IV sedation. Furthermore, because it is long-lasting, it is ideal for longer procedures or for patients who are undergoing several procedures at one time.

Do I Qualify for IV Sedation?

To determine whether you qualify for IV sedation, you’ll need to speak to your periodontist. He will review your medical history to ensure that you are not taking any medications that might interact negatively with this treatment, and make sure your body is healthy enough to receive sedatives. He will also help decide if this level of sedation is necessary for your comfort, or if another method is more suitable, such as nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation.

Remember, while it is very common to feel nervous or anxious about receiving any kind of dental care, if those feelings get in the way of protecting your smile, IV sedation could help. To learn more about this treatment, and to see if it could help make your dental care more comfortable, speak to your periodontist today.

About Dr. Cordini

Dr. Franco Cordini graduated from Creighton University School of Dentistry and earned his periodontics specialty at the University of Louisville. He proudly offers several forms of sedation dentistry to help keep his patients feeling comfortable and calm during any type of oral health treatment. To add IV sedation to your upcoming appointment, please call Cordini Dental Implant & Perio Surgery at 502-425-5010.