When it comes to medical procedures, between 50% and 80% of adults in the U.S. experience mild to severe anxiety about dental visits. Whether it’s the thought of drilling, needles, or simply sitting in the dentist’s chair, this apprehension can prevent individuals from seeking necessary dental care. 

Our Stone Oak dental office understands patients’ concerns, so our “IV sedation dentist near me” specializes in providing a comfortable and stress-free experience. However, one common question he runs into is, “Is IV sedation safe?”

What Is IV Sedation?

IV sedation, or intravenous sedation, involves administering medication directly into the bloodstream through a small needle inserted into a vein. This technique helps patients feel deeply relaxed or even sleep-like during dental procedures. While you are not entirely unconscious with this type of sedation, you are unlikely to remember any details of the treatment, significantly reducing the stress or fear associated with the visit.

At Sonterra Dental, our experienced IV sedation dentist near me can make even the most complex procedures manageable for patients with high levels of dental anxiety. The appropriate dental sedation solution provides a calm, controlled environment in which the patient and dentist can focus on achieving the best results, free of the distractions that worry or discomfort can cause.

Why Choose IV Sedation?

Dentists with decades of experience understand the importance of tailoring care to individual patient needs, especially those requiring a more relaxed dental visit. IV sedation can be particularly beneficial for individuals with:

• Severe Dental Anxiety: If dental visits cause extreme fear or discomfort, IV sedation can help make the experience smooth and worry-free.
• Pain Sensitivity: Sedation reduces discomfort for patients with sensitive teeth or gums throughout the procedure.
• Complex Dental Work: The calming effects of IV sedation make prolonged or intricate procedures, such as oral surgery or multiple restorations, far less daunting.
• Gag Reflex Management: Sedation can suppress the gag reflex during treatment, which is often beneficial for Individuals with an overactive gag reflex.
• Time-Saving Treatment: IV sedation allows dentists to complete several procedures in one sitting, saving patients from multiple visits.

Is IV Sedation Safe?

Safety is the most crucial consideration when deciding if IV sedation is the right fit for you. Rest assured, IV sedation is a safe and effective when administered by qualified and experienced dental professionals. At Sonterra Dental, our IV sedation dentist near me possesses the knowledge and expertise to deliver heavy sedation carefully and skillfully, maintaining the highest safety standards.

Before administering sedation, our IV sedation dentist near me reviews your medical history, current medications, and any potential health concerns to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. During the treatment, we monitor vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels to ensure safety and comfort.

Because IV sedation takes effect quickly, the dentist can precisely control the dosage and adjust instantly. This level of customization contributes to the procedure’s overall safety and effectiveness. Following the treatment, patients are monitored until they are alert enough to go home with a companion.

Common Myths From Our IV Sedation Dentist Near Me

Despite its many advantages, there are still some misconceptions about IV sedation. Here are a few myths our IV sedation dentist near me would like to address:

Myth 1: IV sedation is the same as general anesthesia. 

General anesthesia renders a patient completely unconscious, while IV sedation relaxes the patient while allowing them to remain responsive. IV sedation carries fewer risks compared to general anesthesia.

Myth 2: IV sedation is only for major surgery. 

Though often used for more complex procedures, IV sedation can also benefit patients with dental anxiety during routine procedures like fillings or cleanings.

Myth 3: Recovery from IV sedation takes days. 

Most patients recover from IV sedation within a few hours. Although they may feel slightly drowsy after resting at home, they typically return to normal by the next day.

Chat with Our IV Sedation Dentist Near Me in San Antonio

Don’t let dental anxiety hold you back from receiving the care you need. Contact Sonterra Dental today to learn more about IV sedation and how it can transform your dental experience. Our skilled team is ready to help you achieve optimal oral health in a relaxing, supportive environment.