Intravenous (IV) Sedation and Oral Sedation

For patients who are nervous about undergoing dental treatment, we can help create a relaxed experience for you. Regardless of the extent of your visit, our intravenous (IV) sedation can provide soothing and comfortable relaxation throughout your treatment.

What is Intravenous IV Sedation?

Many patients feel anxious when they receive dental treatment. We want you to have the best quality experience possible, which is why we offer intravenous (IV) sedation, for our patients’ ultimate comfort. Dr. Retana is certified to administer IV sedation. Without the need to bring in another Dr. to administer it, he is able to keep the cost for this service down considerably.

What are the Benefits of Intravenous IV Sedation?

  • This method is considered to be the safest and most effective form of dental sedation.
  • You are conscious with all protective reflexes intact (breathing on your own, able to respond to commands, etc.), and don’t usually remember much of what happened after the IV is started short-term amnesia).
  • Your vital signs are monitored throughout your entire visit.
  • IV sedation is ideal for the comfort of both anxious patients and of those who are undergoing long procedures.
  • It is superior to oral sedation in that our medical team has more control over the depth of sedation delivered.
  • IV sedation works more quickly than oral sedation.

What is Oral Sedation?

  • While not as effective, oral sedation is a means to a much more comfortable dental visit. By taking a prescribed series of pill(s) before the procedure you can arrive at your visit without anxiety. Your vital signs will be monitored throughout the procedure. If additional sedation is needed, another pill can be administered.
  • The combination of oral and IV sedation has proven to be a very effective protocol for most patients with dental anxiety. We recommend it if you’ve had dental anxiety that prevents you from seeking dental care or if you simply want a better dental experience.

What are the Benefits of Oral Sedation?

  • Less Expensive.
  • You are conscious with all protective reflexes intact (breathing on your own, able to respond to commands, etc.), and don’t usually remember much of what happened after the IV is started (short-term amnesia)
  • Your vital signs are monitored throughout your entire visit.
  • First dose given the night before so patient should sleep better.
  • You can arrive at your appointment partially sedated.
  • No needle necessary.

Will I Be Awake During My Procedure?

With IV sedation your level of comfort can easily be adjusted as well as the amount of dental correction necessary. The most typical levels of sedation are:

  • Minimal sedation, where you are awake but relaxed throughout your treatment
  • Moderate, or conscious, sedation may cause you to slur your speech and you may not remember much about the procedure.

These treatment options can be discussed during your consultation with our medical team to help us determine how to make you the most comfortable during your dental procedure.

What is the cost?

The cost varies greatly depending upon the region and doctor’s training. IV sedation fees can range from $450 up, depending on the amount of time the procedure takes. Oral Sedation less costly as it is only a monitoring fee, $50-300.

To learn more about Intravenous (IV) Sedation and Oral Sedation and how we can help you please call 214-810-0170.