
Jun
IV dental sedation is a great tool that can be used to help patients relax and remain calm during complicated procedures. Tooth extractions and root canals are sometimes lengthy and can cause a patient to become nervous or overwhelmed. In Perry, Georgia, Dr. Bryce Westmoreland of Wes Park Family Dentistry uses sedation to ensure his patients remain calm while they are in his chair. IV sedation is a safe and effective tool allowing patients to get dental care.
IV sedation is often recommended for patients who have anxiety, ADHD, or panic disorders that make it difficult for them to sit comfortably for long periods at a time. It’s also a good option for children who may become upset or unable to sit still. Lengthy dental procedures may be overwhelming for a patient. Sedation allows patients to relax and get through the procedure without getting stressed or upset.
IV sedation will begin to wear off immediately once the medication is stopped. In most cases, a patient will start to wake up in as little as 15 minutes after their procedure is complete. Although it isn’t safe for the patient to drive or make important decisions, they will be awake and coherent. The patient may be groggy and drowsy for the next few hours but should be able to manage simple tasks and go about their day as long as they aren’t overdoing it.
During IV dental sedation, your dentist can adjust how deeply you sleep. He may put you into a deep sleep or a semi-conscious state where he can wake you up enough to speak to him during the procedure. Most patients won’t need to go completely under. They primarily need it to relax and remain comfortable while the dentist is working. People with anxiety may not be able to stay calm when the doctor is working so close to their face.
IV sedation has very few side effects. While a patient may remain drowsy for several hours after waking up, the grogginess will often fade within the first hour or two. One of the most common side effects many people experience with IV sedation is nausea. For this reason, your dentist will request that you not eat or drink anything prior to your procedure for at least 12 to 18 hours. This will keep your nausea to a minimum.
Not everyone is capable of using IV sedation. If you want to explore this option and find out if you would be a good candidate, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bryce Westmoreland at Wes Park Family Dentistry in Perry, GA. He can evaluate your situation and answer any questions you may have. He will explain the criteria you must meet and what you must do to prepare for your appointment. Call (478) 488-3561 to schedule a consultation.