IV Sedation
nearby Honolulu
IV Sedation provided by Dr. Haruki
and Dr. Oishi
in Honolulu & Waipi'o, HI at Pacific Maxillofacial Center
 When oral health issues arise, prompt treatment is necessary. If you are feeling anxious or fearful over the thought of undergoing dental treatment, you may do everything you can to avoid it. The longer treatment is put off, the worse the condition becomes, and the more invasive the necessary treatments become. Pacific Maxillofacial Center can help you to relax, enabling you to get the treatments you need when you need them with IV sedation.
Why Use IV Sedation?
Sedation is a common solution for those dental patients who feel anxiety or fear about getting necessary dental treatments, such as oral surgery. It allows you to feel completely relaxed in an otherwise stressful situation, enabling you to stay calm and comfortable. When you are relaxed, we can safely, and effectively, perform your procedures, improving your oral health.
Anxiety and fear are not the only reasons for sedation. Other common uses include:
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You have a low tolerance for pain.
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Your gag reflex is very sensitive.
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You have highly sensitive teeth.
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You cannot sit still for long periods of time.
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You need to undergo several procedures.
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Your procedure will take a long time to complete. |
What is IV Sedation?
IV sedation is a type of sedation that is delivered directly into your bloodstream through a needle. An IV can be used for moderate conscious sedation, deep sedation, and general anesthesia. Moderate conscious sedation is similar to oral conscious sedation. The medication administered makes you feel drowsy while keeping you conscious, and can even cause temporary amnesia. With deep sedation, you are also still conscious, but on the brink of unconsciousness. Many patients even fall asleep during their procedure. With general IV anesthesia, you are made to sleep through the whole procedure.
Getting Treatment with IV Sedation
If you are receiving IV sedation for your dental treatment, you will need to abstain from eating or drinking anything, including water, for at least 6 to 8 hours before your appointment. If you take any regular medications, you should take them as normal, unless otherwise directed. In this case, a small sip of water is okay. After you sit down in the dental chair, a needle is inserted either into the back of your hand or your arm. The needle is attached to IV fluids. Once we are ready to begin, the medication is started. Because it goes directly into the bloodstream, it takes effect within seconds. After your procedure is complete, the medication is shut off, and the needle removed. The effects of the sedative can linger for several hours, so you will need to have a driver to bring you home.
IV Sedation Benefits
There are many benefits to IV sedation, including:
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The medication goes to work almost immediately.
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The medication enables you to relax and stay comfortable while we work.
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Your procedures can be done in a safe and effective manner.
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You are monitored by a trained professional throughout your procedure.
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Adjustments can be made as needed. |
Drawbacks to IV Sedation
There are also a few drawbacks to IV sedation to consider.
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Medication is administered via a needle. If needles make you nervous, we can discuss other options.
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You will not be able to have anything to eat or drink before your appointment.
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The effects of sedation can linger for several hours.
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You may feel groggy or nauseated as the sedative wears off. |
With IV sedation, you can get the treatments you need, such as dental implants, to restore your oral health while keeping you calm and comfortable in the process. Call Pacific Maxillofacial Center today for more information and to find out if IV sedation is right for you at 808-585-8455.
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