Relax During Dental Visits with Dental Sedation
If dental anxiety is holding you back from receiving necessary dental treatments, Intravenous (IV) sedation may be the solution for you. Some procedures, like dental implant placements, require the patient to be calm and relaxed to ensure the treatment goes smoothly. IV sedation has been proven to be an effective method of sedation to keep the patient calm yet responsive during these procedures.
At Lehigh Valley Orla Surgery & Implant Center, Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry offers IV sedation to patients struggling with dental anxiety or other complications that may make routine procedures a challenge. Learn more.
What Is IV Dental Sedation?
IV sedation is a safe and effective method of sedation administered through a needle into a patient’s arm or hand. Dr. Chaudhry can easily control the volume and types of chemicals injected to ensure that the patient enters a state of extreme relaxation, but is still conscious enough to answer questions if needed. This dental sedation method is also considered one of the safest methods to relieve dental anxiety and prepare a patient for surgical dental treatments.
Benefits of IV Sedation
IV sedation offers several benefits that make it an appealing option for many patients. These include:
- Swift Administration: Unlike some sedation methods, which must be taken hours before a procedure, IV sedation works within minutes.
- Controlled and Monitored Administration: The amount of sedative can be easily increased or decreased depending on the patient’s specific needs during different stages of treatment.
- Consciousness: Unlike general anesthesia, IV sedation doesn’t put patients to sleep, but rather puts them in a state of deep relaxation.
- No Gag Reflex: Patients who may have an over-sensitive gag reflex won’t have any trouble with IV sedation, as they will feel no pain or sensitivity during the procedure.
Candidacy for IV Sedation
IV sedation is a common sedative that can be used for many dental procedures. Most patients are ideal candidates for IV sedation, particularly those who have:
- Dental anxiety
- Low pain thresholds
- History of bad dental experiences
- Sensitive gag reflex
- Difficulty with other forms of dental sedation
- Complex dental procedures
Dr. Chaudhry will evaluate your oral and overall health before recommending IV sedation. Schedule a consultation with our skilled oral surgeon in Pennsylvania today to learn if IV sedation is right for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be awake with IV sedation?
Yes, with IV sedation you will be in a state of deep relaxation, but you will still be conscious enough to answer questions if needed. This is known as “twilight sleep,” and it’s different from regular sleep.
How long does IV sedation last?
The effects of IV sedation can last for several hours after the procedure, so it’s important to have someone drive you home and avoid operating heavy machinery or making important decisions until the sedative has worn off.
Do you feel pain with IV sedation?
No, with IV sedation you should not feel any pain or sensitivity during your dental procedure. This is one of the benefits of IV sedation, as it can help patients who have an over-sensitive gag reflex or low pain threshold.
Is IV sedation the same as laughing gas?
No, IV sedation and laughing gas (also known as nitrous oxide) are two different methods of dental sedation. Laughing gas is inhaled through a mask and provides a mild form of sedation, while IV sedation is delivered through a needle into a patient’s arm or hand and provides a deeper level of sedation.
Don’t Let Dental Anxiety Rule Your Life. Schedule a Consultation
IV sedation is a safe and effective method of dental sedation that can help calm your nerves and prepare you for even the most complex dental procedures. If you’re considering IV sedation for an upcoming dental procedure, talk to Dr. Chaudhry about whether it might be right for you. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we’re committed to helping you feel calm, relaxed, and pain-free during your visit.
Schedule a consultation at our Bethlehem or Stroudsburg, PA, offices by calling 484-821-1357. We also serve patients from Fullerton, Allentown, and Fountain Hill.