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For many adults, the prospect of going to the dentist can be a stressful and uncomfortable one. It can even lead to them forgoing the necessary dental care they need for a healthy future. At Unicare Dental Center, we are cognizant of this and strive to create an inviting and soothing atmosphere with our office setting, welcoming staff, and advanced medicine and sedation options.
IV sedation is a process that works by administering a sedative through an intravenous line. The medication is delivered directly into the bloodstream, resulting in a state of relaxation and allowing the patient to remain conscious but feel no pain. The dose is adjusted to the patient’s individual needs and monitored closely by the medical team throughout the procedure.
If you are feeling anxious ahead of oral or facial surgery, IV sedation, also known as conscious sedation, maybe the answer.
Through an intravenous drip, you will be given sedating medication that will put you into a twilight sleep, allowing you to feel a sense of peace and relaxation. While in this state, you can still answer questions but will likely not remember anything afterward.
What someone should anticipate throughout and after a procedure involving IV sedation.
Your doctor will continuously observe you during the IV sedation process, similar to the way patients are watched in a medical facility. Not only will sedative medications be administered, but also medicines via IV to reduce inflammation and avert nausea. Moreover, a local anesthetic will be applied to the operative area to keep it numb after the procedure is over.
For your safety, we highly recommend that you bring a companion with you to your appointment and that they stay in our waiting room while you receive IV sedation. Afterward, you will be monitored in our recovery area until you are ready to be taken home. As your supporters, we will do all that we can to make the process as safe, comfortable, and convenient as possible.
Following your procedure that involves IV sedation, you should plan to rest and recover at home for a minimum of 24 hours. Our staff will provide you with information about which activities to avoid and what to expect during your recuperation.
Alternative forms of sedation.
At Unicare Dental Center, IV sedation is one of the options available to make your dental visit comfortable and positive. However, if it does not feel right for you, ask us about other methods. An alternative to general anesthesia is Nitrous Oxide, which allows you to remain conscious and reduces the time needed for the sedation to wear off.
Local Anesthesia is also an option that lets you stay alert while numbing a small part of your mouth. With this, you can head out of our office and back to your regular routine after the visit.
