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Have a Painless Dental Experience
Do you experience anxiety when visiting the dentist? Patients who avoid receiving necessary dental treatment out of fear of pain and discomfort, run the risk of developing serious oral health complications in the future. That’s why; at Family Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry, Dr. Grubb offers IV sedation options to relieve any stress or anxiety you may have.
Don’t let fear prevent you from getting the proper dental attention for your teeth. Learn more about this remarkable treatment and how it can take the stress out of your dental visits in Harford County.
What is IV Sedation?
Intravenous (IV) sedation is a solution that can put the patient in a state of “twilight sleep.” Although you’re not unconscious, you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure, nor will you have any memory of it afterward. We suggest arranging for a ride home following your procedure as the effects of the sedation won’t wear off immediately after treatment.
During your initial consultation with Dr. Grubb, he’ll recommend IV sedation as an alternative for local anesthetic, ensuring that you don’t feel any pain or pressure throughout the procedure. Patients who choose this option will be cared for by our experienced staff.
How Does IV Sedation Work?
IV sedation is administered at the start of your dental procedure. IVs are connected via a tube which allows the fluid to safely flow into your body. Since the special sedative is administered at a gradual pace, patients will have no memory of their treatment.
Benefits of IV Sedation
In addition to eliminating any stress or anxiety, IV sedation provides various other benefits for our patients, such as:
- Removes pain from invasive dental treatments
- Allows Dr. Grubb to perform multiple dental procedures in one appointment
- Patients retain no memories of the procedure
- Patients maintain enough consciousness to respond to commands
Am I a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
If you feel anxiety when you step into a dentist’s office, or have a phobia of needles and dental tools, IV sedation may be the ideal solution for you. During your consultation with Dr. Grubb regarding your procedure, he’ll answer any questions you may have about the option.
Some things to consider when identifying dental anxiety or stress include:
- Fear of needles and/or shots
- Past traumatic dental experience
- Negative reaction to smells or sounds of dentist office
- Overly sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex
- Inherent resistance to numbing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IV sedation safer than general anesthesia?
Will I be unconscious during IV sedation?
How long does IV sedation take to wear off?
Is IV sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Is IV sedation safer than general anesthesia?
IV sedation is the safer option, as there are several risks with losing unconsciousness during general anesthesia, which is typically reserved for more invasive surgeries in hospitals. Still, conscious sedation does have its own risks, including:
- Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
- Respiratory depression
- Potential allergic reaction
As long as an experienced dentist such as Dr. Grubb is administering the medication, you’ll be reassured knowing that you’re receiving the proper dose for the best results. Our staff will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure that you’re safe and comfortable.
Will I be unconscious during IV sedation?
You’ll remain conscious during IV sedation, but won’t experience any pain during your procedure. Many dentists refer to this state of awareness as “twilight sleep,” as patients can still breathe without assistance as well as respond to commands and questions.
Though you’ll technically be awake, you won’t feel any pain or anxiety during your procedure, and likely won’t recall the treatment itself after the effects of sedation wear off.
How long does IV sedation take to wear off?
We recommend allowing 24 hours to pass after your initial sedation for the effects to wear off. This means it’s best to avoid driving, operating any machinery, or performing any dangerous tasks during this time. Dr. Grubb also recommends having a friend or family member supervise you throughout the recovery period. When you arrive for your dental procedure, make sure someone will be driving you home after the process is completed.
Is IV sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans don’t provide coverage for this service unless in cases where IV sedation is medically necessary. Still, most patients who have anxiety regarding their procedure feel that the expense is worthwhile. Dr. Grubb offers a number of payment and financing options to help cover the cost of IV sedation. We also suggest contacting your dental insurance provider ahead of time to learn what your plan will cover.
Make Your Dental Experience More Pleasant
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a scary experience. At Family Implant & Restorative Dentistry, Dr. Grubb is proud to provide IV sedation dentistry to patients near the Havre de Grace area. Contact us by calling (410) 939-5800 or by out an online contact form to schedule a consultation or set up your next appointment.
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