In the dental industry, the most popular class of drugs used for intravenous sedation are benzodiazepines, which include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan) and others. A number of drugs can be used for intravenous sedation, including benzodiazepines. In our offices, the preferred technique for conscious sedation is intravenous sedation (I. V.
Conscious sedation). This is defined as a minimally depressed level of consciousness that maintains the patient's ability to maintain an airway independently and continuously and respond adequately to physical stimulation and verbal commands, which occurs through a pharmacological or non-pharmacological method (or a combination of them).
Oral sedation
and sedation in dentistry belong to a group of drugs known as benzodiazapines. These drugs not only have a sedative effect, but also have a certain degree of amnesic effect on most people.Patients remember little or nothing from their dental appointment. With sedation, we can use an additional class of medications known as narcotics to control pain, which can also have a sedative effect. Narcotics are generally not used with oral sedation. In addition, during a surgical procedure, we may administer an intravenous corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory medication) instead of our patients buying a prescription anti-inflammatory medication that they must take for several days after the procedure. Intravenous sedation is the best option for prolonged cases, cases of high anxiety, people who have difficulty falling asleep, or for people with severe gag reflexes.
In this way, intravenous sedation differs from general anesthesia, also called unconscious sedation, during which the patient is put to a dream that is not affected by painful stimuli or discomfort. If a patient has a fear of needles, the dentist may use nitrous oxide at the start of the consultation to prepare them for the IV injection and reduce their anxiety. To offer intravenous sedation, dentists must be certified by the American Dental Association, complete the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) program, and pass a comprehensive exam conducted by the dental board of their respective states. Along with sedatives, dentists often include painkillers or opioid pain relievers to control pain during and after invasive procedures. Intravenous sedation is a safe, low-risk sedation therapy for many patients, including those who undergo extensive procedures or those with dental phobia. While sedation is aimed at people who experience an acute sense of fear or uneasiness when it comes to dental treatments, it is also suitable for people with sensitive teeth, a low pain threshold, anxiety, or a sensitive gag reflex.
Intravenous administration allows sedative drugs to take effect quickly, usually within a few seconds. The most common medications used for intravenous or intravenous sedation are Versed (midazolam) and fentanyl. Versed provides a deep level of relaxation and an amnesic effect, while fentanyl relieves pain and can also have a sedative effect. The most common medication used for oral dental sedation is Halcion (Triazolam). Halcion provides a deep level of relaxation and amnesia effect. However, for some patients, such as those with compromised liver function, lorazepam is a better option because it is metabolized in the bloodstream and not by liver enzymes, such as midazolam and diazepam.
The team at Gulch Dental Studio is dedicated to patient comfort and safety and will ensure that intravenous sedation is administered properly and effectively. Patients receiving intravenous sedation do not need medical assistance to maintain vital functions, but their vital signs are still being monitored.
