Services
IV sedation
IV sedation is medicine given through a small tube in a vein, so the dentist can adjust it as you go. It is for strong fear, a lot of treatment at once, or difficulty staying still.
You stay able to breathe on your own and respond when we speak to you. A second trained team member watches only you for the whole visit.
What happens
A planning visit, then the treatment visit. Much of the work can be done in one longer visit.
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Step 1: A visit to plan it
We review your health history and medicines, and we may ask your physician. If your health calls for a hospital setting, we say so and refer you.
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Step 2: The days before
You get fasting instructions in writing, with times, and a list of which regular medicines to take. An adult agrees to drive you and stay with you for the rest of the day.
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Step 3: Arrival and the IV line
We check your pulse, blood pressure and oxygen level, then place a small tube in a vein in your hand or arm. Ask for numbing gel first.
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Step 4: The dental work
Your dentist gives the medicine in small steps and does the treatment. A second team member watches your breathing, oxygen level, pulse and blood pressure the whole time.
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Step 5: Recovery
We stay with you until you are ready to leave. Your adult takes you home, and you rest for the rest of the day.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
We numb the area as usual, and the team keeps talking with you. You can ask us to lighten the sedation. We use the smallest amount that gets you through the visit.
Other choices, and waiting
Other choices are nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or no sedation at a slower pace. We don't offer general anesthesia. If you need it, we will refer you to a practice that does.
Risks and after-care
The medicine can slow breathing and lower blood pressure, which is why we watch both. Some people feel nauseated or dizzy, and the IV site can be sore or bruised. A small number of people react in unexpected ways; our team is trained to respond.
How it's billed
IV sedation appears as its own line on your written estimate, by the time it takes. Many dental plans pay little or nothing toward it, and we tell you before you schedule.
How fees work
Questions about IV sedation
Will I feel the IV go in?
You may feel a pinch. Ask for numbing gel first, and tell us if needles are what you dread most. We'll go at your pace.
Who watches me during the visit?
A second trained team member watches only you, apart from the dentist who is treating you.
Why can't I eat beforehand?
Sedation can make food come back up. Your written instructions give the times.
What if I have a health condition?
Tell us at the planning visit. Some conditions mean a different setting is a better fit, and we will help you find one.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Haynes and Dr. Kimura give IV sedation. Each holds the permit Kentucky requires for it.