At our practice, our dedicated team is committed to creating a compassionate, caring, and comfortable environment for your dental care. We understand that anxiety should never hinder you from receiving the care you need and deserve. As part of our commitment to your comfort, we take additional measures to ensure that your visit is completely stress-free. With the utilization of the latest procedures and technology, our skilled specialists can alleviate the worries of even the most reluctant patients.

What Is IV Sedation?

Our practice is equipped to administer intravenous (IV) sedation, the most potent form of conscious sedation available to dentists, particularly for patients who experience anxiety. Unlike oral sedation, IV sedation begins to take effect almost instantly. Additionally, the recovery time after your appointment is typically shorter compared to taking an oral sedative.

Understanding IV Sedation: Relaxation Without Losing Consciousness

IV sedation, often referred to as "conscious sedation," is not intended to render you unconscious. Instead, it induces a state of relaxation while the dentist works on your teeth. During the procedure, you will remain awake and able to respond to the dentist's questions. Patients commonly report feeling a sense of peaceful, carefree sleepiness. It is likely that you won't remember much of your appointment, and many patients don't remember it at all.

Procedure Overview:

If you opt for IV sedation during your appointment, the dentist will skillfully insert a needle into a vein in your arm or hand. A tube connected to the needle allows the medication to enter your bloodstream quickly. The dentist will carefully adjust the dosage as necessary, ensuring precise control over the sedation level. This approach significantly minimizes the risk of unwanted side effects compared to oral sedation methods.

You can have peace of mind knowing that your safety is our highest priority. Throughout the procedure, our attentive staff will closely monitor your oxygen levels and pulse, ensuring your well-being at all times.

To ensure your complete safety and comfort, the administration of IV sedation requires our team to possess specialized licensing, undergo extensive training, and utilize advanced equipment. These measures are in place to provide you with the highest level of care and ensure a safe sedation experience. In the rare event of any complications, we are fully prepared to administer additional medication to reverse the sedation swiftly.

Precautionary Steps and Eligibility: Prioritizing Your Safety

Before receiving IV sedation, it is important to take a few precautionary measures. Please inform us about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking, as benzodiazepines, the drugs typically used for IV sedation, can have dangerous side effects when combined with other sedatives. It is crucial to avoid consuming alcohol on the day of your appointment, as it can also interact negatively with sedation. To prevent nausea during treatment, we recommend abstaining from eating for at least six hours beforehand.

It is important to note that IV sedation is not suitable for nursing or pregnant women. If you have a history of heart, respiratory, or liver problems, we advise you to discuss the risks associated with IV sedation with your dentist or primary care doctor.

Contact us today at 949-787-1733 to schedule your stress-free appointment and experience the benefits of IV sedation dentistry in Lake Forest. Our dedicated team is ready to provide you with exceptional care and ensure your comfort throughout the entire dental procedure.