IV Sedation
Colorado Springs, CO
 Some patients may find it difficult to relax when they sit in the chair at a dental office, especially if oral surgery is involved. For many of our procedures, Todd Rogers Dental offers several forms of sedation to help put you at ease and eliminate anxiety. One of these forms, IV sedation, is fast-acting, reliable, and customizable for each patient. Intravenous, or IV sedation, is typically some form of anti-anxiety sedative, like a benzodiazepine, that is administered directly into the vein. We typically recommend IV sedation for our more complex procedures, and to patients with severe anxiety or dental phobias.
Before, During, and After IV Sedation
Before you can receive IV sedation, Dr. Rogers must review your medical history to ensure there are no risk factors. We may have to consult with your general physician before proceeding. Once we determine you are a suitable candidate for IV sedation, we can schedule the procedure. Before IV sedation, be sure to:
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Find an escort to drive you to and from the procedure
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Avoid eating or drinking after midnight the night before
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Discuss any medications you are currently taking
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Remove contact lenses and dental appliances (bring the appliances with you)
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Wear comfortable clothing to the appointment |
During your appointment, we will apply a numbing cream to effectively numb the injection site. Once the skin is numbed, we will insert the IV needle into the vein with a guiding tool. The drug is administered slowly until we achieve the desired effect—a state of deep relaxation. Many patients describe it as a “twilight” zone, somewhere in between consciousness and sleep. To put it simply, you experience no anxiety or fear of any kind.
While you are under IV sedation, you will still be able to respond to commands and answer questions. However, many patients find they have little or no memory of the procedure. The effects of IV sedation will last for several hours after your treatment. Again, you are required to have an escort drive you home. Patients typically feel sleepy or slightly disoriented at first, but these effects will eventually wear off.
Remember to drink lots of water as you will be without food or liquids for several hours. If you experience any soreness, be sure to avoid the affected areas until the pain subsides. We typically recommend a soft, healthy diet for the days immediately after a procedure. If pain medication is necessary, it is usually best to stick to over-the-counter medications, such as Tylenol or generic ibuprofen. For complex procedures, Dr. Rogers may prescribe a narcotic pain medication.
Medications Used in IV Sedation
The most popular class of medications used in IV sedation are benzodiazepines, specifically Midazolam, Valium, or Ativan. Midazolam has a very good amnesic effect and wears off faster than other benzodiazepines.
Advantages of IV Sedation
The advantages of IV sedation include:
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Doses tailored to your individual needs
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Eliminates most, if not all memory of the procedure
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Will diminish gag reflex
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Excellent method of treating anxiety
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Deeper form of sedation than oral sedation and nitrous oxide
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Schedule an Appointment
If you would like to learn more about sedation dentistry contact Todd Rogers Dental! Call (719) 357-4425, and schedule your appointment today!
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