Comfort belongs in the plan.
IV sedation begins with a conversation about your health, your concerns, and the care you need.
An individual decision.
As a general dentist, I want to understand what makes an appointment difficult for you. Sedation may be part of a plan for comfort, but the decision depends on your health, the proposed treatment, and a discussion of alternatives and risks.
My training includes IV sedation and airway management, along with ACLS. The consultation is where we consider how that care fits your individual needs.
A plan for the whole appointment.
Preparation and recovery belong in the same conversation as treatment.
- Before
- Health review, individual instructions, and arrangements for your escort.
- During
- Sedation and pain control are discussed as separate parts of care.
- After
- Recovery instructions, support at home, and a contact for questions.
Understand the plan before the appointment.
IV sedation uses medication delivered through a vein. The route does not tell you the depth of sedation; ask about the intended level, what you may experience, and how pain will be controlled. Local anesthetic and sedation serve different roles.
Bring your medical history, allergies, medication and supplement list, and any previous anesthesia concerns. We will discuss suitability and whether further evaluation is needed.
Preparation and follow-through.
You should have written, individualized instructions for food and drink, medications, transportation, and recovery support. Arrange the required escort and follow the treating team’s directions. Ask before changing any medication.
The plan should also explain who to contact if your health changes before the appointment or you have concerns afterward.
Further reading: ADA: anesthesia and sedation and AAOMS: preparing for surgery.