Here at Southern Minnesota Periodontics & Dental Implants, we are proud to offer IV sedation.

We all know someone who is afraid to go to the dentist. Some people feel a little nervous while others are completely terrified. For this reason, we are proud to offer IV sedation so that all our patients can have a comfortable and positive experience every time they come into our office.

We truly believe you should have the smile you deserve, no matter how scared you are.

We offer IV sedation that is customized for each patient. After discussing your fears, we will be able to find a treatment plan that is just right for your needs. We offer IV sedation as a safe and effective way to give our patients the treatment they need without inducing anxiety.

When you request sedation dentistry, we will give you a pill about an hour before your procedure. This is used to help you relax, so you will need someone to drive you to your appointment. As soon as you arrive at our office, one of our staff members will take you to a private room for treatment.

Your dentist will place an IV catheter to give you the medication that will put you in a deeper state of relaxation. We will then start your treatment. Once you are finished, you will have a smile that you can be proud of and no memory of the procedure. We can often perform several procedures at once when you are relaxed with IV sedation.

Since IV sedation is not routinely done, we are sure you have plenty of questions that you would like answered before starting treatment. Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Will I feel anything during my treatment?
Most patients don’t feel anything when we use IV sedation. Instead, they wake up from their procedure very relaxed and comfortable. They usually don’t have any memory of the treatment.

Is sedation dentistry the same as being unconscious?
Sedation dentistry will not make you unconscious. You will be completely relaxed, conscious, and responsive.

Is sedation dentistry safe?
It is a very safe and effective way to give you the smile you deserve without causing anxiety. It is important to discuss your concerns with your dentist so that you can decide if IV sedation will work for you.

How long will it take for the sedation to wear off?
How long you are drowsy depends on several factors including how much sedative we use, how long you are being treated, and how your body responds to the medicine. You shouldn’t drive after your treatment if you get sedation. It is also important that you don’t drink alcohol or operate machinery until you feel normal.

Am I a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
We will use sedation dentistry for any patients (even children) who are worried about going to the dentist. We can use it whenever you have anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist, especially if you have had a traumatic experience at a dentist’s office in the past.

Sedation can also be helpful if you are scared of needles and shots. Many people struggle with gagging when they are at the dentist and would also benefit from sedation. It is also helpful for those who want to have more than one procedure performed at a time to get the smile they want. Anyone who wants to have a comfortable experience at our office can have one with IV sedation.

If you have any additional questions about IV sedation, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (507) 345-7537.