Surgical Procedures

IV Sedation

We now offer IV Sedation in our Mill Creek office! If you are interested in IV Sedation please contact our office at (425)486-9111 or by email at: info@ipanw.com.

IV Sedation (also known as Conscious Sedation) is when medications are administered directly into a vein allowing for a decreased level of consciousness. During IV Sedation you are not completely asleep and you continue to breathe without assistance, allowing you to respond to commands during your surgery.

In dental conscious sedation, you are rendered free of fear, apprehension and anxiety. The majority of patients do not remember anything about their procedure.

While no procedure is totally risk free, having anesthesia in a doctorÕs office is as safe as having it in an outpatient surgical center or hospital. The advantages of office-based anesthesia are:

  • Work completed in a familiar surrounding
  • Cost is considerably less

Upon completion of the dental work, you will be in short recovery status. Monitoring of blood pressure, pulse and breathing will be continued. Post-op instructions will be provided both verbally and written, to your accompanying adult to care for you at home following the procedure.

Am I a candidate for IV Sedation?

Your dentist will need to know your health status and be informed of any illnesses or health conditions. It is important to tell the dentist about any medications (prescription or non-prescription) that you are taking, and whether you have any allergies to any medications. This, along with a thorough examination, will help the dentist determine whether or not IV sedation is an appropriate option for you.

How closely am I watched during the anesthesia?

Your doctor will be in the room with you during the whole procedure, carefully giving full attention to your safety and comfort. Your blood pressure, pulse and blood oxygen level will be watched.

What if something unexpected happens?

Your doctor has all the emergency equipment and training needed to handle any rare but possible reaction to the sedation.

Is it safe?

Your doctor is well trained and equipped to handle emergencies. While no procedure is totally risk free, having anesthesia in a doctorÕs office is as safe as having it in an outpatient surgical center.

Why have treatment in an office as opposed to a hospital or surgical center?

With this service you can have the procedure done in the familiar surroundings of your doctorÕs office, and you will avoid additional operating room charges.

What about children?

Children can receive anesthesia in the office as well. Your doctor is well trained in treating your children and can take care of them as safely as adults.

Will it make me nauseous?

Nausea is always possible with anesthesia, but with the newer sedative available, it is far less likely than in the past. In addition, your doctor has medications available to treat nausea if it should occur.

Are the any special rules for getting anesthesia?

You need to avoid eating or drinking anything for at least six hours before your procedure. You will need to have someone drive you home, since you will not driving after receiving the anesthetic. Your doctor will tell you if there are any other things to consider because of your individual state of health.

If you have any additional questions or concerns about IV sedation, please feel free to contact us at: (425) 486-9111 or by email at: info@ipanw.com. Providing you with the best dental care and an atmosphere of tranquility is our top priority.