Thursday, April 28, 2016

Twilight IV Sedation: Should You Try It?

Dentists use different sedation options for a variety of reasons. Sometimes a patient needs to be sedated for a particular procedure, but often it's just about making someone with dental anxiety feel more comfortable. Whatever the reason, light IV sedation, sometimes called twilight sedation, is an option that can help you get through a dental visit in a comfortable and relaxing manner.

To be able to perform twilight sedation in Houston, a dentist needs to meet some educational requirements, according to guidelines provided by the American Dental Association.  This includes completing an advanced education program accredited by the ADA. They also need to follow a number of guidelines outlined by the ADA when they perform sedation on their patients. Dr. Vakil meets or exceeds all of the applicable requirements for performing twilight sedation, so patients who visit Smile 32 Dentistry for sedation dentistry can relax and know that they're in good hands.

How does Twilight Sedation Work?


When you undergo twilight sedation, your dentist administers an intravenous sedative via a vein in your hand or arm. You'll receive the medicine right before the procedure and thanks to the intravenous administration, you'll feel the effects of the drug very quickly.

When you have twilight sedation you feel very relaxed, but you'll still be semi-conscious. You'll be conscious enough that you can answer questions, but the nature of the drugs used for sedation means that you'll only have very limited memories of what happened when you were sedated. Many people don't remember anything at all, just as if they were asleep throughout the procedure.

Twilight sedation is very safe, and it's suitable for use for almost anyone. There are just a few exceptions; for example, women who are pregnant, people with a benzodiazepine allergy, and people with impaired kidney, liver, or lung function, aren't suitable candidates for this kind of sedation.

Is Twilight Sedation for You?


If you feel get anxious of the idea of visiting the dentist and you're avoiding necessary dental treatment as a result of your anxiety—twilight sedation might be just the thing to help you get the treatment you need.

When you choose this kind of dental sedation, it's important to have someone available to take you home afterward, as you won't be able to drive safely.


Call Us at Smile 32 Dentistry to Learn More


At Smile 32 Dentistry in Memorial Houston, we understand how important it is that you feel comfortable and relaxed when you visit us. If you have any questions about Twilight sedation, or any other kind of dental sedation, don't hesitate to call.