IV dental sedation is the strongest option available at many dental practices. While not every nervous or sensitive patient needs this powerful method in order to feel comfortable, it is an appealing option for those with extreme anxieties.
That said, you’d probably like to know which specific drug your dentist is likely to use if you decide to use IV sedation. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and health history, but this post can give you a snapshot glimpse into your options!
1. Midazolam
Midazolam is derived from benzodiazepines – a class of drugs typically used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. You might recognize names like Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin, which fall under the benzodiazepines category as well. Like its relatives, midazolam has a calming effect on the mind and relaxes the muscles.
The FDA approves of using midazolam for both adult and pediatric dental patients, as long as they don’t have any known sensitivities to the drug. Its effects can last for up to two hours, though, so if you’d prefer a timely recovery, you may want to consider an alternative.
2. Propofol
In contrast, propofol wears off quickly. You’ll likely recover within 20 minutes! Take note, though, that this means it must be continuously administered throughout your treatment. Propofol is also safe for both adults and children, but it does contain soybean oil and egg product, so it’s not a suitable choice for those with related allergies.
3. Ketamine
You might have heard the word “ketamine” used in some not-so-ideal contexts. As a psychedelic, it is sometimes abused for its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects. However, as a medical sedative, ketamine can be quite effective, and its safety is well documented for adult patients. Ketamine typically lasts for up to 10 minutes, making it a better option for shorter treatments.
4. Dexmedetomidine
If dexmedetomidine is the best option for you, your dentist will administer it continuously and in low doses. It has the unique ability to induce a sleep pattern that’s similar to normal sleep, but you will likely still able to respond to your dentist. Generally speaking, dexmedetomidine is safe for children and adults, though it might not be suitable for elderly patients.
Remember to Consult Your Dentist
IV sedation dentistry can be a great solution for patients who struggle with anxiety or severe discomfort during dental treatments. That said, it’s not right for everyone. You should always consult with your medical team about your sedation options and be 100% honest when reporting your health and medication history. If you’re upfront with your dentist, they’ll be able to help you choose the best, safest IV sedation drug for you.
About the Practice
Dr. TJ Sprague and Dr. JP Beller emphasize using advanced dental technology to help their patients feel more comfortable during their visits. That’s why they’re proud to offer IV dental sedation. If you believe you would benefit from this accommodation and would like to discuss your options in more detail, don’t hesitate to call their office at 918-250-9528.