IV Sedation Dentistry in Atlanta, GA

What Is IV Sedation?

IV sedation, or intravenous sedation, is a method of administering anti-anxiety medication directly into your bloodstream through a small IV. This allows for fast-acting, deep relaxation during your dental procedure while keeping you in a twilight state of consciousness—meaning you can still respond to commands but will feel completely calm and at ease.

Benefits of IV Sedation:

• Reduces anxiety and fear for a stress-free experience.
• Allows for multiple treatments in one visit by keeping you relaxed longer.
• Fast-acting and easily adjustable to ensure the perfect level of sedation.
• Minimizes discomfort and pain during dental procedures.
• Little to no memory of the procedure, reducing dental anxiety in the future.

IV sedation is an ideal choice for patients who struggle with severe dental anxiety, sensitive gag reflexes, or lengthy dental treatments.

Who Can Benefit from IV Sedation?

IV sedation may be recommended if you:

• Have moderate to severe dental anxiety or phobia.
• Need complex or lengthy procedures, such as dental implants or wisdom teeth removal.
• Have a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth.
• Struggle with a strong gag reflex that makes treatment uncomfortable.
• Have difficulty sitting still for extended periods.
• Need multiple procedures completed in one visit.

During your consultation, Dr. Dunson will assess your medical history and anxiety levels to determine if IV sedation is the best option for you.

What to Expect with IV Sedation

1. Consultation & Pre-Sedation Evaluation

• Dr. Dunson will review your medical history and discuss sedation options.
• You’ll receive pre-sedation instructions, including fasting requirements before your appointment.

2. IV Sedation Administration

• A small IV is placed in your arm or hand, delivering sedation medication directly into your bloodstream.
• You’ll begin to feel relaxed within minutes, remaining awake but in a deep state of relaxation.

3. Dental Procedure

• You’ll remain calm and comfortable throughout your treatment.
• Since IV sedation has amnesic effects, most patients remember little to nothing about the procedure.

4. Post-Sedation Recovery

• You’ll rest in our office until the sedation wears off.
• You’ll need a responsible adult to drive you home.
• Full recovery takes a few hours, though some drowsiness may persist for the rest of the day.

Is IV Sedation Safe?

Yes! IV sedation is administered and monitored by a trained professional to ensure patient safety. Dr. Bernee Dunson is certified and licensed in IV sedation dentistry, following the highest safety standards. Your vital signs, heart rate, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored throughout the procedure.

If you have any medical conditions or are taking medications, Dr. Dunson will review your health history to determine if IV sedation is right for you.

IV Sedation vs. Other Sedation Options

Patients often wonder how IV sedation compares to other sedation methods.

IV Sedation:

• Ideal for patients with severe dental anxiety or long procedures.
• Administered through an IV, allowing for precise control of sedation levels.
• Patients remain conscious but deeply relaxed.
• Amnesic effect reduces memory of the procedure.

Oral Sedation:

• Taken in pill form before the procedure.
• Effects are milder than IV sedation and take longer to wear off.
• Good for mild to moderate anxiety but not as effective for long procedures.

Nitrous Oxide ("Laughing Gas"):

• Inhaled through a mask, providing a light, calming effect.
• Wears off quickly, allowing patients to drive themselves home.
• Best for mild dental anxiety or shorter treatments.

For patients needing deeper relaxation and a more controlled sedation experience, IV sedation is the best option.

Preparing for IV Sedation

To ensure a safe and smooth experience, follow these pre-sedation guidelines:

• Do not eat or drink for at least 6–8 hours before your appointment.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
• Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after your procedure.
• Avoid alcohol or sedative medications 24 hours before your appointment.
• Follow any specific instructions from Dr. Dunson regarding medications.

After your procedure, plan to rest for the remainder of the day as the sedation fully wears off.

Why Choose Dunson Dental Design for IV Sedation?

At Dunson Dental Design, we are dedicated to providing comfortable, anxiety-free dental care with:

• Certified IV sedation expertise – Dr. Bernee Dunson is licensed and trained in IV sedation.
• Advanced safety monitoring – Continuous monitoring of vital signs throughout your procedure.
• A relaxing, stress-free environment – We specialize in treating anxious patients with compassion and care.
• The ability to complete multiple procedures in one visit, reducing the number of appointments needed.

If you’ve been delaying dental care due to fear or anxiety, IV sedation can help make your visit a calm and relaxing experience.

Schedule Your IV Sedation Consultation in Atlanta

Don’t let dental anxiety keep you from getting the care you need! At Dunson Dental Design, we offer safe and effective IV sedation so you can feel relaxed and comfortable during treatment.

Call (404) 897-1699 or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about IV sedation dentistry in Atlanta, GA.