Dental Intravenous Sedation (IV)
Sedation Dentistry
Intravenous sedation is a type of sedation that helps patients lower their anxiety levels during medical or dental procedures, it produces a state of deep relaxation and drowsiness while patients remain conscious and able to respond to verbal cues from the doctor or dentist.
How Intravenous Sedation differs from other forms of sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation, also known as conscious sedation, is a form of sedation used in various medical procedures, including dental procedures. It involves administering sedatives through a needle inserted into a vein, and the sedatives work quickly to induce a relaxed and drowsy state.
IV sedation takes effect quickly, typically within seconds of administration, and the dosage can be adjusted as needed during the procedure. Other forms of sedation may take longer to take effect, and the dosage may not be as easily adjustable.
Benefits of intravenous sedation
Reduces anxiety and discomfort
One of the primary benefits of IV sedation is that it can help reduce anxiety and discomfort associated with dental treatments. Patients who may otherwise avoid or delay necessary dental treatments due to fear or anxiety can receive the care they need without experiencing unnecessary stress.
Increased relaxation and comfort
IV sedation induces a state of deep relaxation and drowsiness, which can help patients feel more comfortable during dental procedures. Patients may not remember the procedure afterward, which can also help reduce any lingering anxiety or discomfort.
Quicker and more efficient dental treatments
IV sedation can help the dentist complete dental treatments more quickly and efficiently, as the patient is relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. This can reduce the need for multiple appointments or extended treatment times, making it easier for patients to fit dental care into their busy schedules.
Who can benefit from Intravenous Sedation?
Dental anxiety is common and can affect people of any age. Avoiding the dentist however can result in dental disease getting worse, a greater need for emergency care or more complex treatment. It can also feed the underlying problem of dental anxiety, this is known as the ‘vicious cycle of dental anxiety’.
We understand dental phobias and are mindful of ways to keep you as relaxed as possible. If you do feel anxious about your upcoming appointment let us know. We offer longer appointments (no extra charge) and explain everything step by step so there are no surprises!
Patients with dental anxiety or phobia
Dental phobia or anxiety can make it difficult for patients to receive necessary dental treatments. IV sedation can help these patients feel more relaxed and comfortable during procedures, making it easier for the dentist to complete the treatment.
Patients with a strong gag reflex
Some patients have a strong gag reflex, which can make dental procedures uncomfortable or difficult to complete. IV sedation can help relax the patient and reduce the gag reflex, making the procedure easier for the dentist.
Patients with low pain tolerance
For patients who have a low pain tolerance or are particularly sensitive to dental procedures, IV sedation can help reduce the discomfort associated with dental treatments.
Intravenous Sedation Dentist in Sydney
For a more relaxed and comfortable dental experience.
Intravenous sedation is a type of sedation that helps patients lower their anxiety levels during medical or dental procedures, it produces a state of deep relaxation and drowsiness while patients remain conscious and able to respond to verbal cues from the doctor or dentist.
The patient will stay half awake during the dental surgery as the dental IV anaesthetics are not the same as the general sedatives given in major surgeries, compared to General Anaesthesia (GA), IV Sedation has a quicker recovery time and is considered safer.
Why choose IV sedation?
IV is the perfect solution for those who struggle with dental appointments as it is designed to help patients experience dentistry in a much more relaxed way, making the experience easier for the patient.
It is suitable for people that:
- Experience high levels of stress or fear about dental procedures
- If the dental procedure is lengthy or complex
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Deal with tooth sensitivity
- More sensitive to pain
But another great advantage is that it can help the patient go through different procedures such as IV sedation for tooth extractions or as IV anaesthesia for dental surgery, so it’s a versatile solution to deal with medical situations.
This sedation just involves the injection of a sedative medication directly into a patient’s vein, typically in the arm or hand.
Is it recommended to anyone?
It’s important to talk to your dentist about IV sedation and whether it’s the right option for you, also it is important to keep in mind that only dentists or dental specialists who are endorsed for conscious sedation by the Dental Board of Australia can administer IV sedation.
Some side effects patients may suffer are sleep disturbances after the procedure but if there are any other risks involved in the procedure, the dentist will inform you.
It’s important to understand that you can decide about the procedure after getting the risk-related information. If you do not have complications in your teeth, the procedure will not hurt.
About IV
Before any procedure, your dentist will run through your medical history and issues like heart problems may mean you will need to have your dental procedure under IV sedation.
Because of the drowsiness patients should not drive or use heavy equipment after the procedure and should have someone with them at home after the process is completed. The type of sedative drug your dentist will use for your IV sedation is dependent on several factors, including your age, medical history and procedure.
IV is commonly used in dental procedures, such as IV sedation for wisdom teeth, root canal treatment, and other complex procedures that may cause significant pain or anxiety for the patient.
IV Sedation Dentist in Sydney
TLC Dentist has the best IV sedation dentist, dedicated to making your experience smooth and comfortable, so the next time you visit the dentist you can take care of your teeth in a comfortable way.
Our intravenous sedation dentists are licensed professionals ready to perform it with the latest equipment, we also have professionals that can assist you with dental emergencies and in case you have more questions or need more information, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
Dr. Anna Huang – Dental Sedationist
Bachelor of Dentistry (University of Sydney)
Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry, Pain Control and Conscious Sedation (University of Sydney)
*If you do require sedation, you’ll be introduced to our IV sedation dentist Dr. Anna Huang. She attends our clinic regularly using appropriate sedation techniques, so more treatment can be done in one appointment and you will feel much more relaxed.
