IV Moderate Sedation
What is IV moderate sedation?
IV moderate sedation is a safe and effective way to help patients feel deeply relaxed during dental treatment. Medication is delivered through an IV, allowing Dr. Dixon to carefully control the level of sedation throughout your appointment.
Patients remain breathing on their own and able to respond to verbal cues, yet most feel as though they slept through the visit and have little to no memory of the procedure.
Who provides the sedation?
IV moderate sedation is personally administered and monitored by Dr. Dixon, a licensed general dentist trained and permitted to provide moderate sedation.
She is supported by a highly trained clinical team, certified in advanced sedation monitoring and emergency protocols, who assist throughout your treatment to ensure your comfort and safety.
Is IV moderate sedation safe?
Yes. IV moderate sedation has an excellent safety record when administered by properly trained providers.
During your appointment, Dr. Dixon continuously monitors your vital signs and adjusts medication levels as needed. Our clinical team assists with ongoing observation and patient support, creating a controlled, calm, and well-coordinated environment throughout your procedure.
Will I be unconscious?
No. IV moderate sedation is not general anesthesia.
You will remain conscious, breathing on your own, and able to respond if spoken to—however, you will feel deeply relaxed and comfortable. Many patients report feeling as though the appointment passed very quickly or that they “slept through” the visit.
Will I remember my procedure?
Most patients experience little to no memory of the procedure afterward. This is one of the reasons IV moderate sedation is especially helpful for patients with dental anxiety or those undergoing longer or more complex treatments.
Who is a good candidate for IV moderate sedation?
IV moderate sedation may be an excellent option if you:
- Experience dental anxiety or fear
- Have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia alone
- Need complex, surgical, or multiple procedures
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Prefer fewer, longer appointments instead of multiple visits
A thorough medical history review and consultation with Dr. Dixon will determine whether IV sedation is appropriate for you.
What types of procedures can be done with IV sedation?
IV moderate sedation is commonly used for:
- Dental implants
- Surgical extractions
- Bone grafting and advanced surgical procedures
- Multiple procedures completed in one visit
Sedation allows these treatments to be performed more comfortably and efficiently—often reducing the total number of appointments needed.
What should I expect before my appointment?
Prior to your sedation visit, you will receive detailed pre-operative instructions. These typically include:
- Fasting guidelines
- Medication considerations
- Arranging for a responsible adult to drive you home
Our team will review all instructions with you to ensure you feel prepared and confident.
What is recovery like?
After your appointment, you may feel drowsy for several hours. Most patients rest at home for the remainder of the day and return to normal activities the following day.
You will receive clear post-operative and recovery instructions before leaving the office.
Why choose IV moderate sedation at Dixon Dental Studio?
At Dixon Dental Studio, IV sedation is not outsourced or delegated. Your care is personally overseen by Dr. Dixon, with the support of an experienced, highly trained team focused on safety, comfort, and precision.
This integrated approach allows us to provide advanced and surgical dental care in a calm, supportive environment—so dentistry no longer has to feel overwhelming.
