3 Benefits of IV Sedation at the Dentist

Sedation dentistry in Onalaska, WI has become more popular with every passing year. However, despite its popularity, plenty of people are still unaware of what it is or how it works. If IV sedation sounds intimidating to you, we’ll look at why you might want to give it a shot.

1. It’s Safe

A qualified dentist in Onalaska, WI will administer the correct dose based on everything from your weight to your preferences. While sedation may have been hit-or-miss before, the field has come a long way over the past few years.

2. It’s a Shortcut

Sedation is popular because it tempts people back to the dentist — even if they have to go through long or complicated procedures. Many people will put off these visits until it’s too late, and then they’ll end up losing a part of the mouth that they’ll never be able to get back. Whether you need an extraction, periodontal treatments, or implants, IV sedation can give you the confidence you need to get through it all.

3. You Can Expect Better Oral Health

No matter how conscientious you are at home, the truth is that nothing can replace a regular dentist in Onalaska. Home tools can scrape off the vast majority of plaque and tartar, but only the specialized tools can remove all of it. Plus, a dentist can catch other problems, like cavities, gum recession, or even symptoms of oral cancer, before they have the chance to threaten your health.

At Valley Dental, we know how difficult it can be to see the dentist — even if you know you should. That’s why we offer IV sedation to patients who need it most, and we do so without shaming people for their fears or anxieties.

What Happens When You Get IV Sedation for Dental Visits?

Do you struggle with dental anxiety? While this is common, it may be causing you to miss important dental care visits out of fear. At Valley Dental, our dentists in Onalaska, WI, offer IV sedation to ease anxiety and help you feel calmer. But what is it like when you get this kind of sedation? Let’s go over what you can expect from this experience.

Consultation

This type of sedation isn’t suitable for all patients. That’s why we have you come in for a consultation first. During this visit, we’ll go over your medical history and consider other factors to determine if IV sedation is right for you.

Pre-Procedure Instructions

If you’re proceeding with this sedation, we’ll ask you to follow a few instructions before your appointment. That may include avoiding eating or drinking for a certain amount of time leading up to your visit.

IV Setup and Sedative Administration

We’ll place the IV in your arm or hand, then begin administering a sedative. You may feel sleepy once this medication starts to take effect. During your visit, we’ll keep a close eye on your heart rate and other vital signs for your safety.

Recovery

It may take several hours for the effects of IV sedation to fully wear off. You might feel tired or groggy during this time, so arrange a ride home from your appointment. We’ll give you instructions to follow after your visit, such as resting and avoiding strenuous activity.

Visit Us for Stress-Free Dental Appointments!

Are you ready for your next cleaning or ready to schedule some dental work? Our dental team at Valley Dental offers IV sedation in Onalaska, WI, to help patients with dental anxiety feel more comfortable during visits.

When Should You Consider IV Sedation for Dental Visits?

Many people feel at least some anxiety about going to the dentist. But for others, this anxiety can be severe enough to delay cleanings or treatment. IV sedation causes patients to feel sleepy, allowing them to get through dental visits without experiencing discomfort or awareness of what’s going on. Our dentists in Onalaska, WI, at Valley Dental offer this type of sedation in certain situations.

Severe Dental Anxiety

Is your anxiety extreme enough to prevent you from seeking dental care? If so, IV sedation may be the right option to ensure you receive the care you need.

Multiple Procedures

Do you need to have more than one procedure in a single visit? Being sedated intravenously helps make these visits easier to handle for you and our dentists.

Reduced Sensitivity to Local Anesthesia

If local anesthesia doesn’t numb your gums and teeth enough, IV sedation can help ensure that you don’t feel anything.

Sensitive Gag Reflex

This issue can make it harder for our dentists to do cleanings and other dental work. IV sedation helps prevent this problem from occurring.

Severe Tooth Sensitivity

Are your teeth highly sensitive? Intravenous sedation can help you avoid dealing with this kind of discomfort.

Complex or Long Procedure

Do you need a dental procedure that’s going to take awhile? Being sedated can help these appointments go more smoothly for you and our dental team.

Schedule a Visit Today for Sedation Dentistry!

Are you ready for a dental cleaning or other dental services? We offer IV sedation in Onalaska, WI, at Valley Dental to help patients who experience dental anxiety. Our dentists can ensure that you have a comfortable visit with minimal stress!

Is IV Sedation for Dental Work Safe?  

IV sedation during dental work has become an integral part of the industry. When plenty of people will skip the dentist due to their overwhelming anxiety, this procedure has been a literal lifesaver for some patients. Of course, it does raise questions of safety, which can prevent people from taking advantage of sedation’s benefits. We’ll look at what you need to know and how to make a more informed decision.

What Is IV Sedation?

IV sedation in Onalaska, WI, is a type of anesthesia administered through the vein. It not only helps you avoid pain, but it also relaxes you during a procedure. So if you’re coming in for dental implants, you can stay calm regardless of what the dentist needs to do while you’re in the chair.

Is IV Sedation Safe?

Yes. Sedation is both safe and effective, and it’s highly recommended for those who fear the dentist. The more extreme the dental procedure, whether it’s an extraction or bone surgery, the more likely a person will deliberately avoid going to the general dentist for routine procedures. If you’ve been putting off your visit, IV sedation is a safe way to address the problem so you can get the care you need.

IV Sedation in Onalaska

A dentist in Onalaska, WI, will tell you that, as a general rule, IV sedation is safe. However, because sedation can range from mild relaxation to full-blown anesthesia, it’s important to find a skilled professional who understands how to administer the sedation based on the patient. At Valley Dental, we specialize in helping people who need implants, which is the best way to replace a missing tooth or teeth. If you think that IV sedation could help you take the next step, contact us today for more information!

3 Commonly Asked Questions About IV Sedation

If you suffer from dental anxiety or are facing a difficult dental procedure, sedation dentistry can make visiting the dentist in Onalaska, WI, a more positive experience. If you have questions about IV sedation for your next trip to the dentist, we have answers. Below are some of the things you should know about IV sedation dentistry.

1. What are the benefits of IV sedation?

Some of the benefits of IV sedation dentistry include:

  • More positive and comfortable experience going to the dentist
  • Treatment is easier to deliver and receive under IV sedation

2. Who needs IV sedation?

You may benefit from IV sedation if you have dental anxiety that either makes going to the dentist far more difficult or prevents you from going altogether. Patients with a strong gag reflex may also need IV sedation to make going to the dentist possible.

If you are a restless patient who’s facing a long and complex procedure, like multiple cavity fillings or a deep gum cleaning, you may also benefit from IV sedation.

3. What happens during IV sedation?

During IV conscious sedation, you are awake but feel no pain. If you are receiving general anesthesia, you are asleep. When the procedure is over, you will have little or no memory of the experience. During the entire procedure, you are monitored to ensure that the level of sedation is safe.

Want to know more about dental IV sedation in Onalaska, WI? Valley Dental provides IV sedation to patients who need it. Call Valley Dental today to make an appointment, or contact us to find out answers to your questions about IV sedation.