Sedation - Intravenous (IV) Sedation
The dentists of Creekside Dental Clinic have advanced training in this method of delivering light-moderate levels of sedation. Dr’s Todd Penkala, Colin Hughes, Paul Coulter and Sandy Crocker received their IV sedation accreditation at the University of Oregon.
IV sedation can be administered very comfortably and can be used to reduce or virtually eliminate anxiety towards and dental procedure from fillings and cleanings to extractions and placement of dental implants.
IV sedation is a very safe, effective and predictable method of reducing anxiety in dental patients. Patients are clearly monitored with Criticare Pulse Oximetry Monitors that continually monitor blood pressure, pulse rate and oxygen levels in the body. Patients undergoing IV sedation must have a responsible person to accompany them to and from the appointment.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation - Frequently Asked Questions
Is gentle dentistry using IV sedation for everyone?
- This therapy is especially useful for those who:
- Experience medium to severe anxiety in anticipation of pain or discomfort (usually the result of a traumatic dental experience in childhood)
- Have had difficulty in the past with local anesthetics "not working" for them (medium to extreme anxiety can sometimes heighten sensitivity)
- Find it difficult or uncomfortable to keep their mouth open for prolonged periods (usually caused by TMJ problems or other medical conditions)
- Have difficulty controlling their gag reflex.
- Have a lot of work to be done and little time to spend (the dentist can work more quickly when a patient is sedated and is therefore unable to experience any discomfort.
Will I really be totally relaxed?
Yes. You’ll receive just enough sedation so that you’ll be relaxed and unconcerned about the dental treatment.
Will I remember anything?
Typically, no. At the end of the treatment, you’ll have little or no memory of what was accomplished.
Will I feel any pain?
Most patients experience no discomfort whatsoever during treatment and feel surprisingly good afterwards.
What treatments can I have under sedation?
Any procedure that’s usually done in our office without sedation - extractions, fillings, crowns, bridges, even teeth cleaning.
Is gentle dentistry using IV sedation safe for me?
We’ll review your medical history and if necessary, consult with your medical doctor to be sure, and you’ll be constantly monitored while under sedation.
Will my insurance cover it?
It’s best to check with your dental plan provider. However, we’ll review your coverage and, if necessary, make financial arrangements so you get the care you need.
How long will I be off work?
Each patient is different, so this is a difficult question to answer. However, we find that patients only need to take off the day of the procedure. Most are working the next day.
Why don’t more dentists do IV sedation?
British Columbia requires a dentist to have special authorization to perform IV Sedation. The training is extensive to qualify for this authorization and to maintain the special authorization requires specialized courses on sedation and advance life support (ACLS) which are costly and take additional time away from the office.
How do I prepare for IV Conscious Sedation?
If you have been scheduled for a dental procedure using intravenous conscious sedation, please follow the following instructions. Do NOT have anything to eat or drink eight hours before your appointment. Continue to take prescribed medications unless previously instructed otherwise by your dentist. Bring a responsible person with you to drive you home after the procedure. Your driver must be in the office reception area before your sedation can be started.
How long will I be under Sedation?
The length of your appointment will depend upon the procedure being done. There will also be a recovery period of 15-20 minutes after the procedure is finished. Because of the drowsiness, you will then be escorted to your driver’s vehicle. You must not drive or operate any machinery until the day after your intravenous sedation.
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Sedation Services
Sedation | IV Sedation | Oral Sedation | Nitrous Oxide
