What is IV Sedation?

IV (Intravenous) sedation, often called twilight dentistry or conscious sedation, delivers anti-anxiety medication directly into your bloodstream. It induces a state of deep relaxation while allowing you to remain conscious and able to respond to simple commands. Most patients retain little to no memory of the procedure afterward.

IV sedation is suitable for patients who experience:

• High fear or phobia of dental visits or needles.
• Difficulty sitting still for extended periods.
• Complex, lengthy, or invasive surgical dental procedures.
• Resistance or difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia alone.
  

• Rapid Onset: Medication acts almost instantly, allowing you to relax without waiting.
• Precise Control: The dentist can adjust your level of sedation in real time throughout the appointment.
• Deep Relaxation: Ideal for patients with severe dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, low pain tolerance, or sensitive teeth.
• Efficient Care: Multiple treatments or complex procedures (such as wisdom teeth removal or dental implants) can often be completed in a single visit.
  

Before Your Visit

You will receive specific pre-appointment guidelines, including fasting instructions (usually no food or drink for 6 to 8 hours prior) and a review of your medical history.

During Procedure

An IV line is gently placed, and anti-anxiety medication is administered. Vital signs—heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels—are continuously monitored. Local anesthesia is also used to ensure complete pain relief.

After Procedure

You will rest in a recovery area until the main effects wear off. You must have a responsible adult driver to take you home and stay with you for a few hours, as cognitive and motor skills will be impaired for the rest of the day.