Anesthesia & Sedation
This service
Anesthesia & Sedation
Comprehensive sedation and anesthesia options, including IV conscious sedation, designed to ensure a comfortable, anxiety-free surgical experience tailored to each patient’s needs.
Anesthesia & Sedation
What Is Anesthesia?
Anesthesia is used to help reduce pain, discomfort, or awareness during certain dental or oral surgery procedures.
Depending on the procedure and the patient’s needs, anesthesia may help keep the area numb, reduce anxiety, or make the experience more comfortable.
The type of anesthesia recommended can vary based on the patient’s medical history, the complexity of the procedure, and the provider’s clinical judgment.
Different Options During Oral Surgery
Different anesthesia or sedation options may be considered depending on the procedure and the patient’s needs.
These may include:
• local anesthesia to numb the treatment area
• IV conscious sedation when a deeper level of relaxation is appropriate
The appropriate option depends on the patient’s health history, treatment needs, and clinical evaluation.
How the Appropriate Option Is Determined
Anesthesia and sedation recommendations may depend on several factors, including:
• the type of procedure
• the expected length or complexity of treatment
• the patient’s level of anxiety
• medical history
• current medications
• previous experiences with anesthesia or sedation
• the provider’s clinical judgment
Not every patient needs IV sedation, and not every patient is a candidate for every type of anesthesia.
IV Conscious Sedation
What Is IV Conscious Sedation?
IV (intravenous) conscious sedation is a safe and effective technique used to help patients feel deeply relaxed and comfortable during oral surgery procedures. Medication is administered through a vein, allowing it to act quickly and be precisely adjusted throughout treatment.
Although you remain technically conscious and able to respond, most patients feel very drowsy and often remember little to nothing about the procedure.
Important Clarification
IV sedation is not the same as general anesthesia.
You continue to breathe on your own
A ventilator is not required
You remain in a deeply relaxed, semi-conscious state
In contrast, general anesthesia places a patient into a fully unconscious state and typically requires airway support, such as a breathing tube and ventilator.
How It Works
IV sedation is carefully administered and continuously monitored to ensure your safety and comfort.
Medication is delivered through a small IV line
Effects begin quickly and can be adjusted in real time
Vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels) are continuously monitored
A trained surgical team is present at all times
This allows for a controlled, predictable, and personalized level of sedation tailored to each patient.
Benefits of IV Sedation
Deep relaxation and anxiety relief
Little to no memory of the procedure
Increased comfort during longer or complex treatments
Fast-acting and highly adjustable
Ideal for patients with dental anxiety or fear
Important Considerations
Certain medications, substances, and medical histories can affect how IV sedation works:
Use of marijuana (cannabis)
Use of antidepressants or ADHD medications
Frequent use of narcotics/opioids (prescribed or non-prescribed)
History of chronic pain management
Multiple prior surgeries or repeated sedation/anesthesia exposure
These factors may increase tolerance to sedation medications, meaning:
Higher doses may be required
Sedation may feel lighter than expected
Some patients may have partial awareness or recall of the procedure
Additionally, IV sedation does not eliminate the sensation of pressure during surgery. While you should not feel pain, you may still notice pressure or movement.
Who Is a Candidate?
IV sedation may be recommended for:
Patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety
Surgical procedures such as wisdom teeth removal or dental implants
Patients with a strong gag reflex
Individuals who prefer a more relaxed and comfortable experience
A thorough evaluation will determine if IV sedation is appropriate for you.
What to Expect
Before Your Appointment:
Review of your medical history and medications
Pre-operative instructions (including fasting guidelines)
Discussion of your personalized sedation plan
During Your Procedure:
IV sedation is administered and adjusted for comfort
You will feel deeply relaxed and may drift in and out of sleep
Continuous monitoring ensures your safety throughout
After Your Procedure:
You must have a responsible adult drive you home
Drowsiness may persist for several hours
Most patients recover comfortably with minimal memory of the procedure
Safety First
IV conscious sedation is extremely safe when administered by a trained oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Our team follows strict monitoring protocols and uses advanced equipment to ensure the highest level of patient safety at all times.
Schedule your consultation today and discover the right path for your unique transformation!
