Many people put off visiting a dentist in Maple Ridge for their bi-annual dental cleanings and checkups because of their fear of the dentist. Being worried about visiting the dentist is more common than one may think. In fact, dental anxiety is one of the more common fears out there. Luckily, there is a solution for those who get stressed at the mere thought of visiting the dentist: IV sedation near you. At Maple Place Dental Centre, we offer IV sedation to our patients so that they can relax and feel comfortable during their dental appointments. Read on to learn more about how IV sedation works.
What is IV Sedation?
IV sedation is a form of sedation dentistry that allows patients to relax by introducing an anti-anxiety medication into their bloodstream using a small needle inserted into a vein. This kind of sedation allows for a deeper level of sedation than other sedation methods, such as nitrous oxide sedation or oral conscious sedation.
This also means that IV sedation in Maple Ridge also produces a more relaxed state that can safely be maintained throughout the duration of a dental procedure. Every dental procedure and patient differs, so a dentist determines the optimal dosage for each patient on a case-by-case basis.
Who Might Benefit from IV Sedation?
If you have bad dental anxiety or require a long and extensive dental procedure, such as a root canal or wisdom tooth removal, then a dentist near you may suggest that you opt for IV sedation.
IV sedation, unlike general anesthesia, still allows you to respond to the dentist but ensures that you remain in a calm and relaxed state so that you don’t experience any stress or fear during your procedure.
How Does IV Sedation Work?
While every dental clinic uses its own procedures, a typical procedure using IV sedation will look like this:
- First, you will be provided with anti-nausea medication, as the anti-anxiety medication can cause some nausea and vomiting, which we don’t want you to experience.
- Next, your dentist will insert the IV and administer the anti-anxiety medication. This will make you feel relaxed and drowsy.
- Depending on your procedure, your dentist may also provide you with a local anesthetic to numb your mouth so that you do not experience any pain or discomfort while in the dentist’s chair.
It is not uncommon for those who opt for IV sedation to fall asleep during their procedure, but you will still be able to breathe on your own, and you will feel calm and comfortable. Once your procedure is complete, you may find that you did not remember the majority of it.
Another drug will be given to you to bring you out of sedation when your procedure is finished. You may need someone to drive you home after your appointment while the effects of the sedation wear off. Typically, you will be able to go about your day without feeling overly groggy.
Visit Maple Place Dental Centre
It is important to visit your dentist twice a year to maintain excellent oral health. For all of your oral hygiene needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at Maple Place Dental Centre. We are happy to provide you with all the tools you need to maintain a radiant and healthy smile for years to come.