What is IV sedation?

IV sedation is one of the most popular forms of sedation in dental offices and involves the use of benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines help speed up the process of sedation while also speeding up the process of coming out of sedation.

Is it safe?

Of course! Before a dentist office can offer IV sedation to their guests they must complete programs that exceed the guidelines established by the American Dental Association.  This includes training courses in sedation, emergency management and then an exam is administered to the dental professionals.  Once they pass this comprehensive exam they must apply for a permit that gets approved by their state board of dentistry.  Even after they receive their permit the dentists are required to complete additional hours of continued education on a regular basis.

What is the difference between IV sedation and general anesthesia?

In the past either midazolam or Valium were used to sedate patients while undergoing treatment. Theses drugs work by metabolizing through a person’s liver, which causes the affects to last longer then what is needed.  Any patient with liver problems cannot use these drugs to become sedated.  Lorazapam metabolizes through the blood stream not the liver.

General anesthesia means you are completely asleep and cannot be aroused. This can alter your heart rate and other vital signs, which then requires constant monitoring during the procedure.  The chances of anything going wrong are much higher when using general anesthesia.  IV sedation puts you into a semi-awake state where you are still responsive to verbal cues or a light touch.  Your breathing and heart functions are not affected during IV sedation but are still monitored during the procedure.

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