If the thought of wisdom tooth extraction makes you squirm, IV sedation might be for you. IV sedation for wisdom teeth extraction is making the procedure easy with minimal pain.
Dr. Jennibeth Robles-Velez and her staff at Advanced Oral and Facial Specialists prioritize your comfort. We often use IV sedation for oral surgery to provide a virtually pain-free wisdom teeth extraction procedure. Here’s everything you need to know about IV sedation for tooth extraction.
Benefits of IV Sedation for Oral Surgery
There are great benefits of using IV sedation for wisdom teeth extraction.
IV sedation puts you in a state of deep relaxation. You will likely be awake in a state of “twilight sleep” but unaware of what's happening around you. The medication has an amnesic effect, so you won't remember the procedure.
Recovery from IV sedation is usually fast with minimal side effects. There's less stress on your body during the procedure because you are relaxed, which makes healing a faster, easier experience.
Preparing for IV Sedation
It's important to talk to Dr. Robles-Velez about medications and supplements you take to make sure there won't be dangerous interactions. Be sure to take the day off from work or school after the procedure. Rest is vital to recovery after IV sedation for wisdom teeth extraction.
You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing during your procedure. Loose-fitting clothes help keep you relaxed and do not restrict your body.
You should avoid eating and drinking 6-12 hours before your procedure. We will give you clear instructions during your pre-surgery consultation. A fasting period reduces the risk of aspiration while you are sedated.
You should not wear jewelry and artificial nails during your procedure. These items could interfere with medical equipment or get caught on the clothing of the oral surgeon and staff.
Do not take medications unless approved by your oral surgeon. Unexpected drug interactions could complicate the procedure or recovery period.
During IV Sedation
On the day of your IV sedation oral surgery, arrive with someone you trust to drive you home. Because of the sedation, you cannot drive after the procedure.
Once in the treatment room, a tiny needle is inserted into one of your veins, usually in your arm. As soon as the sedative medication hits your bloodstream, you become very relaxed.
Even though you are conscious during IV sedation for wisdom teeth extraction, you will be in a state of “twilight sleep.” In this dreamlike state, you're largely unaware of what's happening around you.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
It is typical to feel drowsy after the procedure. We suggest you rest for the remainder of the day. Some patients experience nausea or vomiting, but we provide instructions to manage those symptoms. Avoid strenuous activities, operating machinery, or making significant decisions for at least 24 hours after sedation.
