Sedation can be a helpful tool in dentistry. It provides relief from anxiety and improves patient comfort for complex and lengthy procedures. The use of sedation dentistry is a choice each patient can make when it comes to their treatment. Choosing the right type of sedation can make your experience much more relaxing. This comparison of oral and IV sedation will help you understand each type and how they work so that you can make a fully informed decision about your care.
Conscious Oral Sedation
An oral sedative can be prescribed in pill or liquid form to be taken prior to your dental procedure. You will remain conscious, but relaxed and less aware of your surroundings. Oral sedatives can take up to an hour to take effect, so you will be instructed to take it well in advance. Someone will need to drive you to your appointment and home afterwards. The medicine will remain in your system for a few hours after the procedure, so it may be best to have someone you trust stay with you until you feel fully aware.
IV Sedation
Intravenous sedation is delivered through an IV placed in your arm or hand. It offers a deeper level of sedation than an oral sedative, but you will still be technically conscious. You can respond to questions and requests, but you most likely will not remember anything about the procedure afterwards. As with oral sedation, you will need someone to drive you to your appointment and home after. Someone should stay with you at home until the effects of sedation have worn off. You should plan on resting at home for the remainder of the day following your procedure.
Choosing the Best Sedation Option
There are a few different factors to take into consideration when it comes to choosing a type of sedation.
- The type of procedure. The type of procedure you are having is an important consideration when it comes to choosing sedation. Your periodontist may recommend sedation if your procedure will be particularly invasive or complex.
- Feelings of anxiety. If you feel nervous or anxious about the procedure, sedation can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable. You can avoid unnecessary stress and its residual effects.
- Your personal preference. You may feel more comfortable with one type of sedation over another. If needles make you nervous, an oral sedative is a needle-free option. If you would prefer to be more deeply sedated, IV sedation may be right for you.
- Your health. Certain health conditions may play a part in what types of sedation are safe and effective. Talk to your primary care physician if you have concerns about sedation and your current health.
A consultation with your periodontist is the best place to start when it comes to choosing a sedation option for your upcoming procedure. Together you can create a treatment plan that includes sedation for a more relaxing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe for most patients in most situations. Medical history is always taken into consideration before any type of care is provided. Your vitals will be closely monitored throughout the procedure. We would be happy to collaborate with your primary care physician if you have any concerns about sedation and your current health status.
Do I need sedation if I’m not anxious?
In some cases sedation is used to ease anxiety, but in other cases it is used as a safety measure for you, the patient. Your periodontist will make a recommendation for sedation based on all of the criteria involved.
At Hudson Valley Periodontics and Implantology we put patient comfort above all else, providing a variety of sedation options to make procedures less intimidating and more relaxing. We proudly serve patients in Bardonia, NY and the surrounding areas, including Nyack, Hillcrest, and Pomona with comprehensive periodontal services. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.