When it comes to dental procedures, anxiety and fear can often overshadow the need for essential care for many patients. If this sounds like something you deal with personally, modern dentistry offers solutions! Intravenous (IV) sedation can help alleviate even heavy discomfort and anxiety during treatments. But is IV sedation the right choice for you? Read on to find out!
What Is IV Sedation?
IV sedation involves administering sedative drugs intravenously to induce a state of deep relaxation and calmness. Unlike local anesthesia, which numbs a specific area, IV sedation dulls your senses. Some patients even report that they can’t remember their procedure afterward.
Who Uses Sedation?
There are several reasons you may want to use IV sedation during your treatment:
Severe Dental Anxiety
Do you have a phobia of dental appointments, or just a bit of stomach butterflies? The first step in determining if IV sedation is right for you is to assess your level of dental anxiety. A slight amount of anxiety may be treatable through lighter forms of sedation. However, IV sedation might be for you if you experience severe fear or anxiety that prevents you from seeking treatment.
Long or Complex Procedures
Are you having a particularly lengthy or advanced treatment? IV sedation is commonly used for more invasive procedures such as wisdom teeth extractions, dental implant placement, or extensive oral surgeries. If you’re going to be in the dentist chair for a while, IV sedation can help you stay comfortable throughout the process.
Resistance to Anesthesia
While most patients react well to local anesthesia, some don’t feel the effects of the medicine as easily. Instead of relying on multiple doses of numbing agent, you may simply ask for IV sedation to help reduce pain. This may also be the case for patients who have sensitive nerves or low pain tolerance in general.
Should I Use IV Sedation?
Ultimately, the decision to undergo IV sedation should be made between you and your dentist. By considering all the factors and your personal preferences, you can make an informed choice that prioritizes your comfort. To ensure the best experience every time you visit your dentist, try to be open and communicative about your needs. After all, your dentist may be very talented, but they can’t read your mind!
If you think IV sedation is right for you, reach out to your dentist before your next appointment. They’ll be glad to help you in any way you need to prioritize your comfort and care. With sedation dentistry, you can make every visit worry-free and take care your smile.
About the Author
If you’re looking for a dentist in Goodyear who will focus on your needs, look no further than Dr. Joshua Hong. He is a talented and friendly dentist with a dental doctorate from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry. He strives for excellence in patient care! Call (623) 925-8822 to schedule an appointment at Joshua Hong DDS, or visit the website to see a full menu of services.