Intravenous Sedation (“Monitored Anesthesia Care”)
Our office offers our patients Intravenous sedation, also known as monitored anesthesia care (MAC). Intravenous sedation is type of anesthesia that relaxes a patient through an intravenous (IV) placed in a vein when undergoing dental procedures. Since it’s administered intravenously, the doctor is able to adjust the level of IV sedation as needed for the procedure. This makes it easy to tailor the amount of sedative used to the specific patient, reducing the risk of complications and side effects. While you’ll still be in a semi-awake state and you’ll probably be able to communicate with the dentist, most patients have little or even no memory of the procedure when IV sedation is used. During sedation, you will be closely and continuously monitored by the doctor and staff members, using electronic equipment that shows blood pressure, heart rate, the amount of oxygen in the blood and, often, your heart function on a monitor. After the procedure is over, you will not be released until it is safe for you to go home. You and the person taking you home will receive post-treatment and home care instructions including what you should eat and drink.
How is Intravenous Sedation administered?
A thin needle will be introduced into a vein in your arm or hand. The needle will be attached to an intravenous tube through which medication will be given to help you relax and feel comfortable. Some patients with medical conditions and/or on specific drug regimens may only be lightly sedated and may not sleep at all.
The goal of IV sedation is to use as little medication as possible to get the treatment completed. It is very safe, much safer than oral sedation. Intravenous Sedation can help many people receive care in a safe environment — especially those who would not otherwise be able to have treatment due to anxiety, fear or a specific dental phobia. And, perhaps best of all, it generally leaves the patient comfortable, rested, and with little or no memory of the procedure itself.
If you have questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please contact our office.