IV Sedation
Dental phobia and other forms of patient anxiety can make it difficult for dentists to perform dental treatments safely.
Thanks to intravenous (IV) sedation, our patients can achieve a relaxed state during dental visits.
Learn how dental sedation at our Glastonbury, CT, practice can help you...
How IV Sedation Works The Basics of the Process
Intravenous sedation is typically reserved for more extensive dental procedures, such as dental implants, All-on-4 dental implants and full mouth reconstruction. Here are the key advantages of this sleep dentistry method:
Intravenous Sedative Drugs
During treatment, a sedative drug is administered directly into a patient's bloodstream. This method is quite different from oral conscious sedation, which involves taking a pill, or nitrous oxide, in which the sedative is inhaled.
A Deeper Level of Relaxation
While nitrous oxide and oral sedatives are effective, intravenous sedation allows patients to reach a much deeper state of relaxation. This is why it is often the preferred method when performing more complicated or lengthy procedures.
Careful Patient Monitoring
Safety is our very first priority. Our practice employs certified dental anesthesiologists so patients are in expert hands during the procedure. They will administer the medication and monitor your vital signs throughout treatment.
The Benefits of IV Sedation Why It's Popular with Patients
There are many benefits to intravenous sedation dentistry:
Less Fear during Treatment
It's estimated that up to 50 percent of Americans avoid visiting the dentist out of fear. Sedation dentistry techniques can help these people overcome their anxiety over dental work.Comfortable, Relaxed Dental Care
The use of anesthesia allows patients to reach a state of deep relaxation while in the dentist's chair. This is not only helpful for anxious patients; it can also benefit those who have arthritis or other conditions that make sitting for long periods difficult.Promotes Safety
When anxious or uncomfortable patients are relaxed, it's easier for dentists to safely perform their work.Candidates for IV Sedation Is It Right for You?
Sedation Medications given orally are not recommended for patients who are pregnant, suffer from depression of the central nervous system (CNS), have glaucoma, or have allergies to benzodiazepines or other medications. Intravenous sedation is often recommended to address:
Whether you suffer from dental phobia or just a general feeling of anxiety about dental visits, intravenous sedation can help you overcome your fear and feel relaxed under our care.
Patients with a poor gag reflex may find trips to the dentist extremely uncomfortable. Using anesthesia during a visit allows them to undergo dental treatment comfortably.
Highly sensitive teeth can make dental anesthetics less effective. Sedation techniques eliminate patient discomfort during dental procedures, allowing dentists to do their work efficiently and painlessly.
Sedation is great for patients needing treatment that would normally require multiple trips to the office, which can all be combined with sedation. This is very popular with busy executives and people with very little free time for treatment.
Cerebral palsy, arthritis, and other medical conditions can make it difficult to remain still or in certain positions for extended lengths of time. Dental anesthesia can help tremendously in these cases.
For invasive or lengthy procedures, your dentist may recommend intravenous sedation over nitrous oxide and oral sedatives. You and our dentists can discuss this option during your initial consultation.
Meet with an Experienced Dentist For an Anxiety-free Experience
Dr. Avinash S. Bidra is a board-certified prosthodontist, which is a dental specialist with advanced training in implants, cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry. He also has a sub-specialty in Maxillofacial Prosthetics. He completed his dental and specialty training in India, Florida, Connecticut, and Texas.
Dr. Bidra is one of the few board-certified prosthodontists in Connecticut and the only one in Glastonbury. He has extensive surgical experience with dental implants, having placed and restored thousands of implants. His expertise draws patients from other states and Puerto Rico.
Dr. Bidra is the recipient of numerous awards, including:
- Distinguished Clinician Award by the American College of Prosthodontists
- Connecticut Magazine Top Dentist
- Hartford Magazine Top Dentist
- Service Award as Chairman of the 50th year Scientific Session of the American College of Prosthodontists
- United States Patent Award for Invention of a Device used in the popular All-on-4 Dental Implant Treatment
- Numerous academic/scholarly awards from prosthodontic scientific organizations and scientific journals
To learn more about intravenous sedation and other options for stress-free dental care, schedule a consultation online. You can also reach us by phone at: (860) 659-8660
A Dentist That Makes You Feel Safe, Comfortable
Paul Lombardo
2021
All aspects of my visit were met with a friendly and professional attitude! Great care was taken to provide a thorough and safe dental experience. Thanks once again for your great service!
View More Google ReviewsDenise Ingaran
2019
I have a dentist phobia. I almost cancelled my free consultation. I'm extremely glad I didn't. He made me feel very safe and almost completely comfortable. I'm still dealing with my phobia but he has made it somewhat easier to try to deal with it.
View More Google ReviewsThe IV Sedation Process
This breakdown provides an overview of what happens during your visit to our Glastonbury, CT, practice when you choose to incorporate this sedation method:
What to Expect During Sedation An Overview of the Patient Experience
Deep State of Relaxation
Intravenous sedation puts patients in a deeper state of relaxation than nitrous oxide or oral sedatives. At the end of the procedure, patients will have little memory of the procedure. This amnesiac effect makes it helpful for invasive treatments and phobic patients.
Patient Semi-consciousness
It is a common misconception that the sedative medication renders a patient unconscious. Patients are actually in a semi-conscious state. They can respond to their dentist and answer questions when needed during the course of their treatment.
Safety Precautions after Sedation Ensuring Patient Wellness
Receiving an intravenous sedative during a dental treatment requires taking special safety measures following your office visit:
Have a Designated Driver
The intravenous sedative will prevent you from safely operating a vehicle. Make sure a loved one is present during your visit to drive you to the practice and back home to recover.
Avoid Driving for 24 Hours
Even after you've arrived home and rested, you may still feel the effects of the sedative medication. Patients should avoid driving for at least 24 hours after having received intravenous sedation.
Contact Us About Concerns
If any issues or concerns arise any time after undergoing IV sedation, be sure to contact our Glastonbury, CT, practice as soon as possible. We care about your safety and wellness.
A Kind, Deeply Engaged Professional
joanne balshi
2021
Dr Bidra defines the word "doctor" as every patient dreams it should be. Clearly his prosthodontic skills match his superior credentials, but even more importantly, he is a kind and deeply engaged professional who instills complete confidence in his patients. I find him to be a very refreshing cut above most and I trust him to keep me smiling.
View More Google ReviewsAimee Fletcher
2021
I highly recommend Dr. Bidra. Not only is he the best at what he does, but he truly cares about his patients. I was a little anxious to have the procedure done, Dr. Bidra went out of his way to make sure I was comfortable and put any concerns to rest.
View More Google Reviews
