IV Sedation Dentistry – Gainesville, GA
Feel Safe, Relaxed, and Comfortable at Your Appointment
In some cases, neither nitrous oxide nor oral conscious sedation are enough to help a patient feel comfortable throughout their appointment. That’s why your Gainesville sedation dentist Dr. Shue Her completed countless hours of continuing education to become certified in IV sedation through the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS). This reliable and safe form of sedation dentistry can help even the most fearful patient get the dental care they need to achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. Read on to learn more about this calming service below, and call us today to see if this option is right for you.
What Is IV Sedation Dentistry?
As its name suggests, IV sedation dentistry administers a powerful anti-anxiety medication directly into the blood stream. Like nitrous oxide sedation, it takes effect right away, but similar to oral conscious sedation, it will take quite some time to wear off after the procedure. Although the patient isn’t likely to remember anything during their treatment, they will remain conscious and will not be fully asleep.
Is IV Sedation Dentistry Right for Me?
IV sedation dentistry can help you feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable at your appointment if you:
- Are having a long or complicated dental procedure completed.
- Struggle with severe dental anxiety or phobia.
- Have special needs.
- Have a physical condition that makes sitting for long period uncomfortable.
Before your treatment, your IV sedation dentist will closely review your medical history to ensure that IV sedation is a good choice for you. While most patients can benefit from it, it’s not recommended for those who are pregnant, have glaucoma, or have poor liver function.
What to Expect with IV Sedation Dentistry
Once Dr. Her has determined that you’re a good candidate for IV sedation, he’ll give you specific instructions to follow before your appointment, such as don’t eat or drink anything for at least eight hours beforehand. When it’s time for your treatment, we’ll carefully insert a small needle into your hand or arm to introduce the sedative into your blood stream. Within moments, you’ll be tremendously relaxed and at ease.
Throughout your appointment, we’ll keep a close eye on your heart rate and breathing patterns. If needed, we can adjust your level of sedation at any time throughout your treatment. After we complete your procedure, we’ll remove the IV sedation and let you rest until you feel sure on your feet. Then, you’ll need to have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you until the grogginess from the sedation wears off. You should be able to resume all your normal activities the following day.