For patients who are nervous about undergoing dental treatment, our intravenous (IV) sedation provide soothing and comfortable relaxation throughout your treatment.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take advantage of our safe and effective intravenous IV sedation during your dental treatment.
What is Intravenous (IV) Sedation?
Many patients get anxious about receiving dental treatment. Intravenous (IV) sedation and its anaesthetic qualities ease many patients’ concerns. Dr. McFadden can administer the sedative himself, while other dentists require an additional doctor. This perk helps DIC’s patients save more on most procedures.
What are the Benefits of Intravenous IV Sedation?
- This method is considered to be the safest and most effective form of dental sedation.
- You are conscious with all protective reflexes intact (breathing on your own, able to respond to commands, etc.), and don’t usually remember much of what happened after the IV is started short-term amnesia).
- Your vital signs are monitored throughout your entire visit.
- Ideal for anxious patients and patients undergoing long procedures.
- It is superior to oral sedation in that our medical team has more control over the depth of sedation delivered.
- Works faster than oral sedation.
How is Oral Sedation different than IV Sedation?
While not as effective, oral sedation is a means to a much more comfortable dental visit. By taking a prescribed series of pill(s) before the procedure you can arrive at your visit without anxiety. We will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure. If additional sedation is needed, another pill can be administered.
The combination of oral and IV sedation has proven to be a very effective protocol for most patients with dental anxiety. We recommend it if you’ve had dental anxiety that prevents you from seeking dental care or if you simply want a better dental experience.
What are the Advantages of Oral Sedation?
- Less Expensive.
- You will be conscious with all protective reflexes intact (breathing on your own, able to respond to commands, etc.), and you won’t usually remember much of what happened after the IV is started (short-term amnesia).
- Your vital signs will be monitored throughout your entire visit.
- First dose is given the night before so you should sleep better.
- You can arrive at your appointment partially sedated.
- No needle necessary.
Will I Be Awake During My Procedure?
With IV sedation, your comfort level is easily adjusted as needed throughout the procedure. The most typical levels of sedation are:
- Minimal sedation is where you are awake but relaxed throughout your treatment
- Moderate, or conscious, sedation may cause you to slur your speech and you may not remember much about the procedure.
During your consultation, we will discuss these treatment options with you to help determine how to make you the most comfortable during your dental procedure.
What is the cost?
The cost varies greatly depending upon the region, the doctor’s training, and whether they charge in 15 minute segments or just a flat fee. IV sedation fees can range from $650 up, depending on the amount of time the procedure takes. Oral Sedation less costly as it is only a monitoring fee, $150-300.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Intravenous (IV) sedation?
It is a sedative administered through an IV line which creates a calming, relaxed state during dental treatment and helps anxious patients feel comfortable throughout their procedure.
What are the benefits of IV sedation?
It is considered the safest and most effective form of sedation because you remain conscious with all protective reflexes intact, it works faster than oral sedation, your vital signs are monitored the entire time, and the dental team has greater control over the level of sedation.
How is oral sedation different from IV sedation?
Oral sedation is taken in pill form before the appointment and is not as effective as IV sedation, although it still helps create a more relaxed, anxiety-free visit. If additional sedation is required, another pill can be given.
Can oral sedation and IV sedation be combined?
Yes, the combination of oral and IV sedation is a very effective protocol for patients who suffer from dental anxiety or who want the most comfortable dental experience possible.
What are the advantages of oral sedation?
It is less expensive, does not require a needle, helps you sleep better the night before, allows you to arrive partially sedated, and you will remain conscious with protective reflexes intact while your vital signs are monitored.
Will I be awake during my dental procedure?
Yes, you are awake but relaxed. With IV sedation the comfort level can be adjusted, and most patients experience either minimal sedation where they are awake but calm, or moderate sedation where speech may slur and memory of the procedure is limited.
Is IV sedation suitable for anxious patients or long procedures?
Yes, it is ideal for patients who are nervous about dental treatment or who are undergoing lengthy procedures because it creates a calm experience and reduces memory of the appointment.
What does IV sedation cost?
IV sedation fees usually start around $650 and vary based on the doctor and how long the procedure lasts, while oral sedation is less expensive and typically ranges from $150 to $300.
