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For many people, going to the dentist elicits feelings of fear and anxiety. Over 60 percent of American adults are scared of going to the dentist and over 20 percent skip appointments due to fear of pain. While it’s not anyone’s idea of fun, going to the dentist is necessary to keep your mouth and teeth healthy. Fortunately, advances in modern dentistry have made it easier for people with dental anxiety to sit through procedures. One of the most popular solutions for dental anxiety is IV Sedation, also referred to as twilight or sleep dentistry.

What Is IV Sedation?

With intravenous (IV) sedation, patients can feel relaxed during the entirety of a dental procedure. IV sedation involves the use of an anti-anxiety drug which is administered intravenously. The sedative effects of the drug don’t just ease anxiety but also numb patients to unpleasant dental sensations. If the patient is in a relaxed state, the dentist can perform dental procedures better.

With IV sedation, you remain conscious throughout the procedure but in a dreamlike state, where you are less aware of your surroundings. The thought of being asleep during a procedure is another source of anxiety for patients. IV sedation hits two birds with one stone: addressing dental anxiety and the fear of being unconscious. You will still be able to respond to your dentist’s commands. If you are interested, the next step is to seek a dentist who offers IV sedation, also known as a sedation dentist.

Who Can Perform IV Sedation?

Not all dentists can perform sedation dentistry. It takes additional education and certification to become a sedation dentist. Dentists offering IV sedation undergo a lengthy sedation course taught by board-certified anesthesiologists through CODA (Commission of Dental Accreditation) accredited dental schools, programs, or teaching hospitals. Certification also needs to be renewed every so often, depending on state rules. Dentists in the state of Florida need to secure a Sedation Permit for Conscious Sedation. With rigorous education, proper licensing and certification, and a permit to perform IV sedation, you can rest assured that the dentist is competent in administering IV sedation and handling emergencies that may arise from conscious sedation.

Sedation Dentist in Plantation, Florida

Dr. Ernie Soto is a certified sedation dentist licensed by the State of Florida — one of the very few who are able to administer it in the state. He regularly administers IV sedation to patients for a more comfortable experience. He is also certified in nitrous-oxide inhalation conscious sedation, which is an alternative to the intravenous route. Throughout the procedure, your heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration will be closely monitored by our staff.

For safe and professional IV sedation, put your trust in Dr. Soto. If you have any questions at all about IV sedation or would like to make an appointment, call our dental clinic at (954) 368-6264 or use our online request form now. Our friendly staff looks forward to serving you!