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IV Sedation

Also known as Sleep/Twilight Dentistry, it is a technique of choice to treat anxious patients.

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Twilight Dentistry is a technique that involves the intravenous administration of a sedative before dental work is performed. Also known as IV sedation, it is a technique of choice to treat anxious patients, or people who are nervous, fearful, or unable to tolerate the pain that is associated with some dental procedures. When performed by a skilled dentist, it creates a pain-free dental experience that the patient is typically unable to remember when the procedure is finished.

IV sedation is an excellent option for patients who are anxious or afraid to visit the dentist. In general, there are three situations in which IV sedation is recommended:

  • Patients who require procedures that are lengthy or complex
  • Patients who tend to experience high levels of stress or fear about dental procedures
  • Patients who have a low threshold for pain and with those who have a pronounced gag reflex

As with the case of any procedure, you should talk to your dentist about your specific situation and whether you are a good candidate for IV sedation.


The use of IV Sedation

While many dentists can administer nitrous oxide or minimal sedation, only a small number of dentists are trained to administer deep IV sedation. The Dental Board of Australia states that, "Only dentists, including dental specialists, whose registration is endorsed for conscious sedation can use this technique in their practice". Some of the medical and dental professionals who can perform IV sedation:

  • Board endorsed conscious sedation dentists
  • Dental anaesthesiologists
  • General anaesthesiologists

The most important thing to remember when choosing a dentist to perform IV sedation is to ensure that the dentist has the proper qualifications to perform sedation dentistry.

Frequently Asked Questions

People often refer to IV sedation as twilight dentistry because it involves the use of a sedative that helps you relax before your dental procedure. Some IV drugs can put patients into a twilight-like sleep, in which patients feel tired and are less aware of their surroundings. Here is a look at some of the other terms or nicknames given to IV sedation: Sleep Dentistry, Twilight Anaesthesia, Sedation Dentistry, Conscious Sedation
IV sedation can be performed in the comfort of a qualified dentist's office. As with the case of most dental procedures, you will be positioned in a comfortable dental chair when your sedative is administered and your dental work is performed. At National Dental Care / DB Dental, we are pleased to have all of the patient monitors and IV equipment required to safely perform IV sedation.
There is no universal sedative used for IV sedation. Your dentist will evaluate your age, health history, and type of procedure you will receive before selecting a sedative to administer. While trends may vary according to practice type and drug availability, there are several that are used more commonly than others. They include midazolam, diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and propofol.
No. When IV sedation is properly administered, you will not feel any pain during your procedure. You can expect your IV sedative to begin working in a matter of minutes, allowing your dentist to begin your dental work without you feeling any pain. And if your dentist numbs the area on your arm or hand where your needle is inserted, you may not even feel the small prick of the needle used to connect your IV tube. When your procedure is completed and your dentist removes your IV, you may feel as if no time has passed. Most patients have no memory of their procedure or what transpired.
If you require dental work and are considering IV sedation, the best thing to do is contact us directly. Our team of professionals includes multiple dentists who are experienced in sleep dentistry and qualified to perform dental procedures using IV sedation. Our team is happy to respond to any lingering questions you may have about sedation dentistry. We will also confirm whether you are a good candidate for the procedure and help you schedule an appointment for your procedure. We look forward to helping you make the switch from an anxious patient to a happy, healthy one!
If you are an anxious patient, you may wonder what the IV sedation process is like. You can expect the National Dental Care / DB Dental team to make sure you are safe and comfortable before beginning the procedure. As outlined below, IV sedation involves three general phases: Phase One: Your sedationist will insert a thin needle into a vein in your hand or arm and will begin administering your sedative through a connected IV. If you have a low tolerance for pain or a fear of needles, they may apply a numbing cream to your skin before injecting the needle. Phase Two: As the sedative is administered and while your dental procedures are being performed, your sedationist will monitor your vital signs to make sure you are not having an adverse response to the sedative. You can expect to feel relaxed and peaceful during your procedure. Phase Three: When your procedure is completed, you can expect to feel a bit sleepy or groggy for a while. Your sedationist will check your vital signs again to make sure your body responded well to the sedative and procedure. You should plan to have a family member or friend drive you home.

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