IV Sedation Dentistry Upper West Side Manhattan

What Is IV Sedation?

IV sedation delivers fluid medications through a small intravenous (IV) line in the arm or hand. The medication takes effect within minutes, and will put you in a state of light “twilight” sleep. You will feel very relaxed and drowsy, and do not remember the procedure afterward.

IV Sedation for Dental Procedures

At Westside Family Dental Group, IV sedation can help you feel at ease during procedures. Our oral surgeon recommends it based on your needs. Procedures that may involve IV sedation include:

• Wisdom teeth removal
• Pediatric dentistry – safe treatment for children with multiple cavities, those who cannot sit still
• Tooth extractions
• Dental implant placement
• Bone grafting
• Lengthy or complex treatment
• Multiple procedures in one visit

IV Sedation From a Dual-Trained Oral Surgeon and Anesthesiologist

Dr. Jason Tan, MD, DMD, is a dual-trained oral and maxillofacial surgeon and dental anesthesiologist.  Your doctor is trained to manage your sedation with a strong focus on safety. 

His unique expertise allows our office to offer in-office IV sedation for wisdom tooth removal and other dental procedures, a service not widely available on the Upper West Side. Dr. Tan’s education includes:

• Oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at The Mount Sinai Hospital
• Advanced training in dental anesthesiology at Jacobi Medical Center
• Medical degree (M.D.) from Albert Einstein College of Medicine
• Dental degree (D.M.D) at McGill University

If you are looking for an IV sedation dentist who puts your comfort and safety first, contact Westside Family Dental Group to schedule a consultation.

Who Is a Candidate for IV Sedation?

IV sedation can help patients who want a predictable and calm dental experience. Dr. Jason Tan, our oral surgeon, determines candidacy after reviewing your medical history, medications, health status, procedure, and other individual needs. Factors that may make you a candidate include:

• Dental anxiety or fear
• Difficulty feeling comfortable during treatment
• A lengthy or complex procedure
• Multiple procedures in one appointment
• Wisdom teeth surgery
• A strong gag reflex or difficulty remaining still

Benefits of IV Sedation

IV sedation offers comfort and control during surgical and lengthy treatment. Your sedation is closely monitored by the doctor throughout. Potential benefits include:

• Helps you feel more relaxed
• Makes lengthy procedures easier to tolerate
• Takes effect quickly
• Sedation level can be monitored and adjusted
• Those with dental anxiety or dental phobia 

What to Expect With IV Sedation at Westside Family Dental Group

Our team guides you through each step. Here is a simple overview.

Before Your Procedure

1. Consultation and evaluation with Dr. Tan
2. Review of your medical history and medications
3. Pre-operative instructions
4. Fasting requirements, if applicable
5. Arranging a way home with a responsible adult (“escort”)

During Your Procedure

1. A small IV is placed
2. Sedation medication is administered
3. Your vital signs are continuously monitored
4. Your procedure is performed while you are sedated

After Your Procedure

1. A short recovery period in our office – usually under 1 hour
2. A responsible adult drives you home
3. Follow your post-operative instructions
4. Avoid driving and other activities as directed

Frequently Asked Questions About IV Sedation

Will I be completely asleep during IV sedation?

Most patients feel deeply relaxed and remember little to none of their procedure. Dr. Tan will tailor your sedation level to your needs.

Does IV sedation hurt?

Most patients feel only a brief pinch when the IV is placed. After that, you should feel relaxed and comfortable.

How long does IV sedation last?

Sedation lasts for the length of your procedure. Drowsiness can linger, so plan to rest the remainder of the day.

What is the difference between IV sedation and general anesthesia?

With IV sedation, you are deeply relaxed and breathe on your own. General anesthesia places you in a fully unconscious state, involving intubation (which we do not perform at the office). Dr. Tan will help determine which is right for you.

Can I drive or walk myself home after IV sedation?

No. A responsible adult must drive or help you home, and you should avoid driving until your doctor says it is safe.  Even if you live in the building, we require someone to walk you to your apartment.

How long will I need to recover after IV sedation?

For the sedation medications, most patients feel back to normal by the end of the day.  On the other hand, full recovery for the procedure itself and any associated swelling, depends on your treatment. The doctor will provide you with guidance.

What should I eat or drink before IV sedation?

No food and drink for 8 hours beforehand. Dr. Tan will provide further instructions.  If this has not been followed, the doctor may have to cancel the IV sedation in order to ensure your safety.