IV Sedation
We recognize that some of our patients may feel anxious or apprehensive about receiving dental care. Our doctors and staff work hard to make sure that your child has a comfortable, positive experience, and that's why we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry for those patients needing a little extra comfort before receiving treatment. Feeling anxious about receiving dental care should never prevent your child from having the beautiful, healthy smile she deserves.
Customized sedation dentistry that is safe and effective
There are different types of sedation dentistry, and you and your child's doctor will work together to decide on a personalized treatment plan that will give your child the care she need while ensuring her comfort every step of the way.
How sedation dentistry works
About an hour before your child begins her dental treatment, she will be given a small pill to help her relax. Due to the sedative nature of the pill, she will need you to accompany her to her appointment because she will not be able to drive. When she arrives at our practice, our staff will be waiting for her and will escort her to a private room where she'll be treated.
Your doctor will gently place an IV and administer medication to help her into a deeper state of relaxation. Once her treatment is complete, she will wake up with little or no memory of the appointment and a beautiful new smile. Using sedation dentistry, we may be able to complete many different procedures, including complex smile makeovers, in just one office visit.
Common questions about sedation dentistry
We understand that you and your child may have many questions about sedation dentistry before receiving treatment. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about sedation dentistry:
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Will I feel anything during my treatment?
In most cases, patients do not feel anything. There is very little discomfort, and many patients wake up feeling relaxed and comfortable with almost no memory of the treatment.
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Is sedation dentistry the same as being unconscious?
No. Your child will still be conscious and responsive but she will be a deep state of relaxation.
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Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way for many patients to receive dental treatment. Before starting treatment with IV sedation, your doctor will help you decide if IV sedation is right for your chld's treatment.
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How long will it take the sedation to wear off?
The time it takes for the sedatives to wear off depends on the dose your child has received, how long her treatment is, and how quick her body can recover. Because being under sedation causes drowsiness, it is recommended that you drive your child to and from her appointment. After her treatment, she will not want to drive, drink alcohol, or operate machinery.
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Am I a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Any patient, from children to adults, who experiences dental anxiety is a good candidate for sedation dentistry. If your chld has any of the following fears or concerns, ask your doctor about sedation dentistry as an option for her next dental treatment:
- Extreme dental anxiety, or fear of visiting the dentist
- Fear of needles and/or shots
- Past traumatic dental experience
- Inability to handle the smells or noises of being at a dentist's office
- Overly sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or trouble getting numb
- Need for a more complex dental treatment
- Self-conscious about your teeth
- Desire for a more comfortable dental treatment
If you feel that your child could benefit from sedation dentistry at your next appointment, please contact us and let us know how we can better accommodate your child's needs.