IV sedation transforms the dental experience for patients who feel anxious about implant procedures or complex oral surgery. We understand that sometimes patients delay needed treatment because of fear or past negative experiences. IV sedation provides a controlled, safe way to receive the care you need while remaining comfortable and relaxed throughout your procedure. Dr. Long completed extensive training in IV sedation during his general practice residency at the Augusta University program, where he gained hands-on experience managing patients under conscious sedation. He maintains the license and qualifications to provide IV sedation independently in-office. However, for your safety and peace of mind, we utilize a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) to deliver and monitor your IV sedation. CRNAs are advanced anesthesia providers—the same professionals who administer anesthesia for major surgeries at Duke University Hospital and other leading medical centers. This advanced training means you’re receiving care from a provider who understands not just the surgical aspects of implant dentistry, but also how to keep you comfortable and safe during treatment.
Unlike oral sedation or nitrous oxide, IV sedation provides precise control over your level of relaxation. The medication works quickly, and we can adjust your comfort level throughout the procedure. Many patients report having little to no memory of their treatment, yet you remain responsive and able to follow instructions during the appointment. This makes IV sedation ideal for longer procedures like All-on-X implant placement, multiple extractions, or bone grafting, allowing us to complete complex procedures in a single visit while you remain comfortable. Having a dedicated CRNA focused solely on your sedation and vital signs allows Dr. Long to concentrate entirely on the surgical precision your implant procedure requires.
IV sedation effectively eliminates the anxiety many patients feel about dental procedures. The medication works directly through your bloodstream, providing immediate relaxation that helps you receive the care you need without the emotional stress that may have prevented you from seeking treatment in the past.
Full arch implant placement and multiple extractions can take several hours to complete. IV sedation keeps you comfortable throughout these longer appointments, allowing Dr. Long to work efficiently while you remain relaxed. Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery and have little memory of the procedure itself.
Because you're relaxed and comfortable under IV sedation, we can often complete multiple procedures in a single appointment that might otherwise require several separate visits. This approach reduces your time away from work and family while delivering the comprehensive treatment you need to restore your smile.
Before your sedation appointment, we review your complete medical history and current medications and conduct thorough medical workups to ensure you're a healthy candidate for in-office IV sedation. You'll receive specific instructions before your procedure, and we'll arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after treatment.
Arrival and IV Placement On the day of your procedure, our CRNA will start by placing a small IV catheter, typically in your hand or arm. The placement feels similar to having blood drawn. Once the IV is in place, the CRNA begins administering the sedation medication, and you'll feel yourself becoming relaxed within minutes.
During your entire treatment, the CRNA continuously monitors your vital signs including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. For particularly extensive procedures, we can arrange for an anesthesiologist to provide deeper sedation with intubation if clinically appropriate.
While you're comfortably sedated, Dr. Long performs your planned treatment, whether that's implant placement, extractions, bone grafting, or a combination of procedures. Most patients remain in a twilight state, aware enough to respond to instructions but relaxed enough to have minimal memory of the treatment itself.
After your procedure is complete, the CRNA gradually reduces the sedation medication and allows you to wake naturally. You'll spend time in our recovery area while we monitor your return to alertness. Most patients feel groggy for several hours after treatment, which is why having a driver is required. You should plan to rest at home for the remainder of the day.
Safety stands as our top priority when providing IV sedation. Dr. Long maintains current certifications in advanced cardiac life support and has the training to manage medical emergencies. Our facility is equipped with emergency medications and equipment, though serious complications with IV sedation are extremely rare when proper protocols are followed. We carefully screen patients to ensure IV sedation is appropriate for their specific health conditions. Only healthy patients who complete thorough pre-operative evaluations are selected for in-office sedation procedures. This dual-provider approach—with both Dr. Long and a CRNA present—provides an additional layer of safety that goes beyond standard dental sedation protocols.
The cost of IV sedation represents an additional investment beyond your implant treatment, but many patients find the comfort and convenience worth the expense. When bundled with full arch implant placement, sedation allows us to complete your treatment efficiently in fewer appointments. We discuss all costs transparently during your consultation, and our team can help you explore financing options that make IV sedation accessible.
Recovery from IV sedation is typically straightforward. You’ll feel drowsy for the first few hours after your appointment, and some patients experience mild nausea that resolves quickly. We recommend having soft foods available at home and avoiding important decisions or operating machinery for the rest of the day. Most patients feel back to normal by the following morning, though some grogginess can persist for 24 hours.
If anxiety or fear has kept you from getting the dental care you need, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help. Dr. Long understands the concerns many patients have about dental procedures, and he’s committed to providing compassionate care that puts your comfort first. With extensive training in both implant dentistry and IV sedation, Dr. Long takes the time to listen to your concerns and ensure you feel safe and supported throughout your treatment. Contact our Durham practice to discuss how IV sedation can make your implant experience stress-free and help you finally achieve the smile you deserve.
Find answers to common questions about our practice and services.
No, IV sedation keeps you in a state of deep relaxation where you remain responsive to instructions but have minimal memory of the procedure. You’re not fully unconscious like you would be under general anesthesia. This twilight state allows us to communicate with you during treatment while keeping you comfortable and relaxed.
IV sedation provides more precise control over your level of relaxation compared to oral sedation pills or nitrous oxide. The medication works immediately through your bloodstream, and we can adjust your comfort level throughout the procedure. Most patients experience deeper relaxation with IV sedation than they would with other sedation methods.
Most healthy adults are good candidates for IV sedation. During your consultation, we review your medical history and current medications to determine if IV sedation is appropriate for you. Certain medical conditions may require additional precautions or consultation with your physician, but most patients can safely receive IV sedation for their implant procedures.
You’ll feel drowsy and relaxed for several hours after your appointment. We require that a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for the first few hours. Most patients rest comfortably at home for the remainder of the day and feel back to normal by the next morning. Some grogginess can persist for up to 24 hours.
No, you’ll need to fast before receiving IV sedation. Typically this means no food or drink after midnight the night before your morning appointment. We provide specific instructions based on your appointment time during your consultation. Following these instructions is important for your safety during sedation.
The cost of IV sedation is separate from your implant treatment and varies based on the length of your procedure. We discuss all costs transparently during your consultation and can provide a detailed breakdown of fees. Many patients find that the comfort and efficiency of completing their treatment under sedation is worth the additional investment. Our team can help you explore financing options if needed.
