Is fear of the dentist one of the main reasons why you might need a full mouth restoration? Whether it is because of anxiety or bad experiences in the past, at the Costa Rica Dental Team we will strive to make you comfortable for your procedure. This is why we offer IV sedation for our surgical procedures. Intravenous (IV) sedation is a method of administering medication through a vein to induce a state of deep relaxation and reduced awareness. It must be administered properly by an anesthesiologist and several precautions must be taken prior to the procedure. If you are scared of the dentist this might be a good option for you, here’s how it typically works:
1. Preparation: Before the procedure, your dentist or anesthesiologist will review your medical history and assess your suitability for IV sedation. This is because there are certain health problems like stents or heart issues that can complicate the procedure. These complications must be addressed in a more suitable facility, like a hospital, where more equipment is available for monitoring or responding to an emergency. The professionals will explain the process and answer any questions you may have. They will also ask you to fast for 8 hours prior to the procedure.
2. IV Line Placement: When the dentists are ready to start, a small needle or catheter is inserted into a vein, usually in your arm or hand. This allows for the controlled administration of the sedative medications.
3. Medication administration: Once the IV line is in place, the appropriate sedative drugs are administered through it. These drugs may include benzodiazepines, propofol, or other medications. The choice of medication and dosage will depend on your specific needs and the procedure’s requirements. The medication induces a state of deep relaxation, reducing anxiety and awareness. You will remain conscious but, in a state where you may not remember the procedure or feel significant discomfort. Throughout the procedure, your vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, are continuously monitored to ensure your safety.
4. Procedure: The dental procedure is performed while you are under the effects of the sedation. Your anesthesiologist can adjust the level of sedation as needed during the procedure.
5. Recovery: Once the procedure is complete, the administration of sedative drugs is stopped, and you will wake up gradually. You will be monitored as you recover from the sedation effects. This normally takes between 20 and 30 minutes. You may feel groggy or drowsy after the procedure. This is why it is essential to have someone accompany you home, as you should not drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of the sedation wear off completely. Also, the post operative instructions and prescriptions will be given to the person you choose to accompany you, as you may easily forget what was discussed.
IV sedation is a safe and effective method for managing anxiety, fear and discomfort during dental procedures, and it allows the dentist to work more efficiently. However, it must be administered by trained professionals who are experienced in sedation techniques and can monitor your condition closely throughout the process. At our office, we offer the option to make implant surgery, All on 4, multiple extraction and bone grafting procedures accessible to patients with dental phobias. Since we always administer IV sedation with an anesthesiologist present, please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly. We are a dental office located in San Jose, Costa Rica that specializes in full mouth reconstructions at fair prices. If you have any additional questions on how to have surgeries as painless as possible feel free to contact us now!
