If you have dental anxiety or sensitivities that make lengthy treatments unpleasant, you might like the sound of being sedated for your appointment. Many patients do find dental sedation methods to be effective at improving their experience. As the strongest option available at most practices, IV sedation can be particularly helpful for severe cases.
But there is one thing you need to know before committing to the idea: is IV dental sedation right for you? There’s one way to find out – read this post to learn more!
What Is IV Sedation?
“IV sedation” means that the sedative chemicals will be administered intravenously – in other words, you’ll be getting a shot. The sedative won’t “knock you out” completely, but it will help you relax and is effective at dulling the senses. It also has an amnesiac element, so you likely won’t remember your treatment after the effects wear off.
Qualities of A Good Candidate
Since IV sedation is the strongest option at many periodontal practices, it’s very important to give your periodontist an accurate account of your health history. Certain medications can interact negatively with IV sedation, and this method might not be ideal if you have a serious medical condition. Otherwise, IV sedation is great for patients who:
- Have moderate to high anxiety
- Can’t sit still comfortably
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Need multiple or lengthy procedures
Talk to Your Periodontist
Ultimately, the only way to know whether IV sedation is right for you is to talk with your periodontist. As a qualified professional, they know what to watch out for when it comes to your health history, and can offer suitable alternatives if needed. To your periodontist, your comfort is just as important as your oral health. Don’t hesitate to contact them if you think IV sedation could improve your in-office experience!
About the Author
Dr. John C. Tunnell is a board-certified periodontist with advanced training in IV sedation. As an experienced care provider, he truly believes that your comfort and confidence is a priority. Dr. Tunnell proudly offers IV sedation for patients who could benefit from it, and would gladly meet with you to discuss your options at Central Perio! To contact his office, call (469) 202-9939.