IV Sedation vs Other Sedation

What sets IV sedation apart from other sedation methods is how manageable it is compared to other sedation methods that are commonly used. Take a look below as Dr. Grubb and our team at Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry compare IV sedation to other sedation methods that we use in our office.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation typically takes the form of a pill, ingested either a few hours before your treatment or the night before. The treatment will determine the dosage, and patients will feel extremely relaxed but most likely will not experience the “twilight sleep” that can be brought on by IV sedation. Oral conscious sedation cannot be purchased over-the-counter and must be prescribed by Dr. Grubb. Patients must also follow directions closely, so that the medicine can take effect on time for their treatment. Patients must also be aware that it may take longer for the oral conscious sedation to wear off, and will need a friend or family member for transportation.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is reserved for less-invasive treatments, and is the application of anesthetic only to the direct site of treatment. For example, if you are receiving a filling for a tooth cavity, the local anesthesia would only be applied to the area around the tooth in question.

The local anesthesia will also require some time to wear off, so patients will experience “numbness” in the area for some time after their appointment.

General Anesthetic

General anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation, and may require a hospital setting. This is the type of sedation that renders the patient unconscious for their procedure. They will feel no pain or have any memory of the procedure, but recovery from this anesthesia will be more extensive.

While IV sedation is sufficient enough for almost all dental procedures, Dr. Grubb will inform you if general anesthesia is necessary.

Find Out Why IV Sedation is Best in Havre de Grace

Now that you’ve seen the major differences between all the sedation methods, we highly recommend that you set up a consultation with Dr. Grubb. During this consultation, you’ll discuss what treatment you need and which sedation method is best to keep you relaxed and undistracted during your procedure.