Intravenous, or IV sedation, is commonly used in periodontics for patients who have an extreme fear of dental procedures. Sedation dentistry also makes it easier for our doctors to perform certain types of complicated procedures, particularly on individuals who have a difficult time relaxing when in the treatment chair.

This type of anesthesia is sometimes called sleep dentistry, although you are not fully asleep during the procedure. A more accurate term is twilight sedation. Most patients do not remember anything that occurs, but will be calm and relaxed, drifting and and out of sleep.

How Sedation Dentistry Works:
IV sedation medication is delivered through a very small needle placed in the top of your hand or within your inner elbow. Tips to remember when receiving this type of anesthesia is that most people usually feel a small prick when the needle is inserted, but no major pain should occur. The medication works quickly, with patients soon drifting in and out of sleep. The needle remains in your arm, allowing our doctors to control the level of medication delivered. Patients also typically receive local anaesthetic on the area requiring work.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry:
Because you are completely relaxed, our doctors are able to accomplish more work in less time. Work that normally take three to four visits can be accomplished in one or two. This type of anesthesia is ideal for patients who have sensitive teeth, a bad gag reflex, a low tolerance for pain or even have difficulty sitting still for long periods of time.

Dental Tips to Remember:
When having a periodontic procedure performed with IV sedation, our office requires patients to abstain from eating or drinking anything for eight hours prior to your appointment. We will closely monitor you throughout the entire appointment by tracking your blood pressure, heart rate and rhythm, oxygen level and pulse. Most patients feel alert soon after the medication is stopped, but we require you to have a relative or friend drive you home after the procedure.

Our first priority your comfort and safety. If you have any concerns regarding sedation dentistry, do not hesitate to ask Dr. Jason C. Stoner or Dr. Daniel Murphy about any aspect of IV sedation.