Sedation Dentistry: Will I feel anything during treatment?

A sedation dentist can make your oral surgery far more relaxing and comfortable. This comfort amenity can benefit patients with severe dental anxiety as well as those receiving common treatments such as wisdom teeth removal and dental implant placement.

There are different types of sedation dentistry, including oral sedation and intravenous sedation. Our team can help you determine the best type for your needs.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves taking prescription medications prior to one’s appointment. This medication normally comes from the benzodiazepine family of drugs. Benzodiazepines are formulated to prevent feelings of excessive worry. Since these medications do impair motor and cognitive function, you will need to arrange for transportation to and from your appointment.

Patients who utilize oral sedation will experience a calm and relaxed demeanor during their care. They might also be able to sleep through treatment.

This type of sedation can benefit those with:

• Severe dental phobia and anxiety
• Strong gag reflexes
• Fear of needles
• Anxiety associated with sounds and smells in dental/medical settings

IV Sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation is commonly used during oral surgery. This type of sedation is the strongest used in dental settings. IV sedation involves administering anesthetic (pain relieving) and sedating medication, which is helpful to those receiving complex, lengthy, or invasive care.

Types of procedures where IV sedation might be used:

• Tooth extractions including wisdom teeth removal
• Dental implant placement
• Bone grafting

Those who receive IV sedation typically do not remember their procedures. This is because the medication is strong enough that they can sleep through treatment in a relaxed state. Patients receiving IV sedation must have a family member bring them to and from their procedures.

Discussing Sedation with Your Dental Healthcare Provider

If you have an upcoming oral surgery or experience anxiety related to dental settings, we recommend discussing sedation dentistry with our team. Our dentist will take your unique needs and your medical history into account when determining if sedation dentistry is right for you.

We are accepting new patients. Call Charlottesville Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center today to reserve a consultation with our skilled sedation dentist.