IV Sedation

At CM Dental Care, we understand that some patients experience dental anxiety and that is the reason we offer intravenous sedation dentistry.

IV sedation is a form of conscious sedation that is administered intravenously so you will be relaxed and comfortable.

Patients who request IV sedation must have a chaperone to accompany them home after treatment because it takes about 24 hours for the sedative to purge from your system.

Why might I need IV sedation?

• Fear of the unknown
• Discomfort in the dental surgery
• Severe gag reflex
• Severe teeth and gum sensitivity
• Experience difficulty with keeping your mouth open
• Need multiple procedures in a single appointment
• Milder forms of sedation haven’t worked

How is IV sedation administered?

Your dentist delivers the sedative through an intravenous line in your hand or arm.

Is it still necessary to be numbed with local anaesthetic?

The drugs used for IV sedation are not painkillers. You will still need to be numbed, but your dentist won’t do this until the sedation has taken effect.

Will I go to sleep?

Called conscious sedation, the sedative sends you into a very calm and relaxed state. It may seem like you have fallen asleep because this sedation technique relaxes you to the point that you do not notice time passing, but you can still respond to simple commands.

The medication also tends to induce a state of slight amnesia so you may have no memory of your treatment.

Is IV sedation safe?

IV sedation is administered by a qualified dentist and your vitals are monitored throughout your procedure and in the recovery room.

However, pre-existing medical conditions or prescription drugs may make you ineligible for IV sedation dentistry. It is important you fill out your medical questionnaire completely and honestly and speak with your dentist about any concerns.

How will I feel afterwards?

You will feel drowsy, but you will not be released from the recovery room to your companion until you are fully awake. Your chaperone should take you home, and you should rest for the remainder of the day, avoiding strenuous activities and alcohol.