IV Sedation
This service
IV Sedation
Personalized sedation options, including IV sedation, designed to provide a comfortable, relaxed, and confident oral surgery experience.
IV Sedation
What Is IV Sedation?
Intravenous (IV) sedation is a form of conscious sedation in which medication is delivered directly into a vein.
Because the medication works rapidly and can be adjusted throughout your procedure, IV sedation allows your surgical team to maintain an appropriate level of relaxation based on your individual response.
You may feel:
Very relaxed and calm
Sleepy or as though you are drifting in and out of sleep
Less aware of your surroundings
Less concerned about the procedure
As though the procedure passed very quickly
Although you may be deeply relaxed, IV sedation is not the same as general anesthesia.
IV Sedation vs. General Anesthesia
With IV sedation, you generally continue to breathe independently and can respond when prompted by your surgical team. You are not intentionally placed into a state of complete unconsciousness.
General anesthesia is different. It produces a deeper state of unconsciousness and may require additional airway management.
The appropriate approach depends on your procedure and individual circumstances. Your oral surgeon will discuss the recommended level of anesthesia or sedation with you before treatment.
What Will I Feel During Surgery?
One of the most common questions patients ask is whether they will feel anything during surgery.
IV sedation helps you relax; local anesthesia provides numbness at the surgical site.
Together, these techniques are used to create a comfortable surgical experience.
You should not expect to feel sharp pain from the treatment area once the local anesthetic has taken effect. However, you may notice sensations such as:
Pressure
Movement
Pushing or pulling
Vibration
These sensations are a normal part of many oral surgery procedures.
If you experience discomfort during treatment, your surgical team can respond appropriately.
A Personalized Approach to Sedation
There is no single sedation plan that is right for every patient.
Your oral surgeon considers several factors when determining whether IV sedation is appropriate, including:
Your procedure
The type, length, and complexity of your surgery.
Your medical history
Existing health conditions and previous experiences with anesthesia or sedation.
Your medications and substances
Prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, supplements, cannabis, opioids, and other substances may influence your response to sedation.
Your anxiety level
Your concerns and comfort level are an important part of planning your care.
Your individual response
People can respond differently to sedative medications, so your sedation is carefully tailored and adjusted when appropriate.
What to Expect
Before Your Procedure
Your oral surgery team will review your medical history, medications, allergies, and treatment plan. You will receive specific instructions regarding fasting, medications, arrival time, and transportation.
Following these instructions carefully helps us provide your care as safely as possible.
During Your Procedure
A small IV is placed, allowing the sedative medication to be administered directly into your bloodstream.
As the medication takes effect, you will become increasingly relaxed and drowsy. Your surgical team remains with you throughout the procedure and continuously monitors your condition.
The level of sedation can be adjusted as needed while local anesthesia keeps the surgical area numb.
After Your Procedure
After surgery, you will spend time in a monitored recovery area while the effects of sedation begin to wear off.
You may feel sleepy or less coordinated for several hours. Because sedation can temporarily affect your judgment, memory, and reflexes, you must have a responsible adult drive you home and follow all post-operative instructions provided by your surgical team.
Is IV Sedation Right for Me?
IV sedation may be an excellent option for patients who:
Feel anxious about dental or oral surgery
Have difficulty becoming comfortable in the dental setting
Have a strong gag reflex
Are undergoing wisdom teeth removal
Are receiving dental implants or other surgical treatment
Are having a longer or more involved procedure
Prefer to be deeply relaxed during treatment
However, IV sedation is not appropriate for every patient or every procedure.
Your oral surgeon will evaluate your individual situation and recommend the safest and most appropriate approach for your care.
Safety Comes First
Your safety is at the center of every sedation appointment.
Before treatment, your oral surgeon performs an appropriate medical evaluation and develops a sedation plan based on your individual needs. During the procedure, your condition is continuously observed and monitored by the surgical team using appropriate monitoring equipment.
Our goal is to provide an experience that is comfortable, controlled, and carefully monitored from start to finish.
Ready to Feel More Comfortable About Your Oral Surgery?
You do not have to face oral surgery with unnecessary anxiety.
If you are considering IV sedation, talk with our oral surgery team about your concerns, your procedure, and what you can expect. We will explain your options and determine whether IV sedation is appropriate for you.
Comfort. Confidence. Personalized Care.
Schedule your consultation to learn more about IV sedation and your oral surgery options.
