IV sedation, also known as deep conscious sedation, is a specialized service. Only dentists and oral surgeons who complete training and receive certification can perform this treatment. Plano, TX, periodontist Dr. Bradley Dean is highly trained in sedation dentistry, including IV sedation.
We want to provide pain-free dental care. With comfortable and relaxing treatment, you can get the care you need to improve your health.
IV Sedation in Plano, TX
For many patients, the medications used for IV sedation are more effective than those taken orally. Rather than being ingested, we directly deliver medicine into the bloodstream through an IV. With this sedation dentistry, the dentist has greater control over the dosage. This level of control can reduce unwanted side effects accompanying oral medications.
IV sedation does not put you fully to sleep. However, you will be in a deep state of relaxation. You will most likely not be aware of things going on around you. In addition, you will still be able to respond to basic commands from our staff and breathe independently. Some people may fall asleep, but this isn’t because the medication puts them to sleep.
Benefits of IV Sedation Dentistry
There are many benefits to IV sedation. It provides:
- More reliable treatment
- Relaxation and anxiety relief
- Time to complete dental work in fewer visits
- Faster recovery with fewer side effects compared to other options
- Expert treatment from our certified Texas dentist
If you avoid visiting the dentist because you fear dental pain or loud dental tools, we can help. We offer IV sedation to ensure you do not feel discomfort during treatment. If you require long or complex treatments like tooth removal or implant treatment, IV sedation can make it seem like treatment flies by.
In addition to sedation, we work to accommodate your needs. If you have dental fear or anxiety, you can tour our office before your upcoming visit. You can also bring a family member with you to your visit. For routine treatments, you can bring music or a comforting object to help you relax.
We usually do not need to sedate patients for routine cleanings or general treatments.
How Does IV Sedation Dentistry Work?
To prepare for your treatments with IV sedation, you should follow fasting guidelines. You should not eat or drink 6 hours before your procedure. However, you can drink water up to two hours before treatment. Do not consume alcohol for 24 hours before your procedure.
You should give Dr. Dean a list of all your medications. Sometimes, medications can interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment. You may be allergic to the anti-anxiety medication used during your procedure.
Afterward, you will feel sleepy and unsteady. Do not go to work or make plans after your treatment. Go home to rest and heal. You will need transportation from our dental office because you will likely feel too tired to drive.
When we administer IV, we use an intravenous tube in the arm. A constant “drip” of medication flows through the tube to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. Various medications are available. We carefully select your medication based on your medical history review and evaluation.
All medications are safe, effective, and carefully controlled. You will remain awake but will likely have no memory of the treatment. However, it will feel like you were asleep during your procedure.
The goal in sedation dentistry is to use a little medication as necessary to achieve relaxation. Compared to alternatives, IV sedation is safer and more effective with less risk of side effects. We can also reverse the effects of the medication.
IV Sedation FAQs
Learn more about sedation with answers to these commonly asked questions:
Is sedation dentistry right for me?
Dr. Dean will perform a complete evaluation and review of your medical history before recommending sedation. The treatment is safe and effective for most healthy adults (and even some children). However, it may not be safe in some cases:
- Pregnancy
- Allergies to specific medications
- Alcohol intoxication
- Heart conditions
- Central Nervous System (CNS) depression
Let us know which medications you are currently taking and if you have allergies. In addition, let us know if there are any changes in your health that we need to know before your care. We take note of your medical history when you join as a new patient. Tell us when this information changes.
How does IV sedation dentistry work?
Medication is administered through an intravenous tube. A constant “drip” of medication flows through the tube to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. We carefully select your medication based on your medical history and current state of health.
All medications are safe, effective, and carefully controlled. You will remain awake throughout the procedure. However, you will likely have no memory of the treatment.
What do you wear to a procedure that uses IV sedation?
We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing to our office. Wear short-sleeved clothing. We can easily place the IV with short-sleeve clothing without altering clothing.
Will I be awake with IV sedation?
You will not be asleep. However, you are in a much safer and more comfortable “semi-awake” state. You may have little or no memory of your dental procedures. Anti-anxiety medications will reduce your fear and will keep you deeply relaxed. During IV sedation, you can respond to commands or light physical touch.
How will I feel after IV sedation?
After IV sedation, you may feel tired and “out of it.” This is normal. These feelings should wear off within twelve hours. Remember that the full effects of sedation will not wear off for twenty-four hours.
How long does dental IV sedation take to wear off?
It takes 24 hours for the effects to wear off. You may feel tired or fall asleep when you get home. We recommend that a friend or family member drive you home after your procedure. Resting for the first 24 hours after treatment also helps you heal.
Get Comfortable Treatment
Call Dr. Dean for relaxing care at (972) 666-1594. You can also schedule an appointment online. Please let us know if you have questions about IV sedation in our Plano, TX, office. We are here to make our office relaxing when you visit.