In last week’s blog we talked about how IV sedation can help adults and children get the oral health care they need without letting fear or anxiety get in the way. Many of our patients at Blue Sky Solutions Anesthesia Associates have asked us what is the difference between IV sedation and general anesthesia.
There Are Many Advantages Of IV Sedation During Dental Work
If you compare inhalation sedation or oral sedation, IV sedation is a stronger sedative.
Since the medication is administered intravenously, the effects are felt very quickly. Compared to oral sedatives, which can take 30 minutes to an hour to take full effect.
Patients have a faster recovery time, when compared with general anesthesia or oral sedation.
IV sedation is able to ease even extreme anxiety, while remaining conscious.
The medication used in IV sedation creates a temporary amnesia effect. Patients rarely remember any of their appointment.
IV sedation is a great solution for patients who can’t sit still for an extended period of time or sensitive to the sounds and lights in the office.
It also helps suppress a sensitive gag reflex, making procedures more comfortable.
Most patients appreciate the fact that they remain conscious during the treatment, unlike general anesthesia.
General Anesthesia
Since IV sedation has become so popular, General Anesthesia isn’t used as often as it once was for oral health procedures.
General Anesthesia is often used for complex oral surgery, extracting impacted wisdom teeth, or someone who is not cooperative under IV sedation.
What About Safety?
When it comes to safety, IV sedation is the way to go. It allows you to avoid the risk of complications that comes with general anesthesia. While under general anesthesia, certain health conditions can also increase the risk of complications. Such as allergies to drugs, diabetes, obesity, smoking, sleep apnea, and seizure disorders.
Every situation is unique and deserves the highest level of safety. Blue Sky Anesthesia Associates partners with dentist throughout New Hampshire and Vermont to bring hospital level IV sedation to your dental office.
