Sedation for implant treatment

If you have been afraid of the dentist, sedation can help. It lets you get through injections, extractions, drilling and the rest without the stress, and usually with little memory of it afterward.

What it is

The sedation offered is conscious sedation, the same kind of “twilight” sedation many people have had for minor surgery or a medical scope. Medicines that relieve pain and cause sleepiness and forgetfulness are given before and during the procedure.

It suits people who are scared of dental treatment, and also people who are not usually nervous but are facing a long or uncomfortable procedure.

IV (intravenous) sedation is the most predictable form and is the most useful for surgery such as extractions and implant placement. Oral sedation (pills) is better suited to longer, non-surgical appointments; IV sedation is the type listed on our services and fees.

Sedation is not for everyone, and your medical history may rule it out. It is discussed at your evaluation. Tell us about every medicine you take, including blood thinners, and about health conditions such as diabetes. Before surgery you will be given instructions to follow, including when to stop eating and drinking. For what recovery feels like, see what can I expect? There is a separate fee for sedation; see the services and fees.

Common questions

Why IV sedation?

IV sedation is easier to adjust than pills. With pills or injections into a muscle, it is harder to know how long the medicine will take to work, and if you start to wake up during treatment, getting you comfortable again can take a long time. With IV sedation, a small extra dose can be given through the IV line, and it works quickly.

Can I drive home afterward?

No. You must not drive after your appointment or for the rest of the day. The medicines can make you forgetful or sleepy for hours afterward. Someone must drive you home, and you should not drive or use machinery until the next day.