IV Sedation Dentistry

We recognize that some of our young patients may feel anxious or apprehensive about receiving dental care. Our doctors and staff work hard to make sure that your child has a comfortable, positive experience, and that's why we are pleased to offer IV sedation dentistry for those patients needing a little extra comfort before receiving treatment. Feeling anxious about receiving dental care should never prevent having a beautiful, healthy smile.

Our office is proud to offer customized IV sedation dentistry that is safe and effective provided by a board-certified Dental Anesthesiologist.

How IV sedation dentistry works

Before treatment begins, your child will be evaluated and examined by our dental anesthesiologist. Your questions and concerns will be addressed. After careful evaluation, the anesthesiologist will administer an intramuscular injection to help your child relax. The doctors and staff will then escort your child to the treatment room.

The dental anesthesiologist will gently place an IV and administer medication to help your child into a deeper state of relaxation. Once treatment is complete, your child will wake up feeling refreshed, with little or no memory of the appointment and a beautiful new smile. Using sedation dentistry, we are able to complete many different procedures, including complex smile makeovers, in just one office visit.

Common questions about IV sedation dentistry

We understand that before receiving treatment, you may have many questions about IV sedation dentistry. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about IV sedation dentistry.

Will my child feel anything during treatment?

In most cases, patients do not feel anything. There is very little discomfort, and many patients wake up feeling relaxed and comfortable with almost no memory of the treatment.

Is IV sedation dentistry the same as being unconscious?

No. Your child will still be conscious and responsive, however, he or she will be a deep state of relaxation.

Is IV sedation dentistry safe?

IV sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way for many patients to receive dental treatment. Before starting treatment with IV sedation, the doctor will talk with you and help you decide if IV sedation is right for your child’s treatment.

How long will it take for the sedation to wear off?

The time it takes for the sedatives to wear off depends on the dose received, how long the treatment is, and how quickly your child’s body can recover. Every patient varies in their recovery times.

Is my child a good candidate for IV sedation dentistry?

Any patients who are healthy and who experience dental anxiety are good candidates for IV sedation dentistry. If your child has any of the following fears or concerns, ask us about IV sedation dentistry as an option for his or her next dental treatment:

Extreme dental anxiety or fear of visiting the dentist
Fear of needles and/or shots
Past traumatic dental experience
Can't handle the smells or noises of being at a dentist's office
Has overly sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or trouble getting numb
Requires a more complex dental treatment
Wishes to have a more comfortable dental treatment

If you feel that your child could benefit from IV sedation dentistry, please contact us and let us know how we can better accommodate your family’s needs.