IV Sedation Explained: A Safe and Comfortable Oral Surgery Experience

If the thought of oral surgery makes you feel nervous, you are not alone. One of the most common questions we hear from patients is, “Will I be awake during my procedure?”

The good news is that with IV sedation, most patients are able to undergo oral surgery comfortably, with little to no memory of the procedure. At Spring Cypress Oral Surgery, patient safety and comfort are always our top priorities, and IV sedation plays a key role in delivering both.

WHAT IS IV SEDATION?

IV sedation, or intravenous sedation, is a form of anesthesia administered through a small IV. This allows the medication to work quickly and be carefully controlled throughout your procedure. Unlike general anesthesia, you are not fully unconscious. However, you will be in a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state and typically will not remember the procedure afterward.

WILL I FEEL ANYTHING DURING SURGERY?

No. In addition to IV sedation, we also use local anesthesia to ensure the surgical area is completely numb.

Most patients report:

• Feeling extremely relaxed
• Little to no awareness of the procedure
• No memory of the surgery afterward.

For many, it feels like they simply fell asleep and woke up with everything completed.

IS IV SEDATION SAFE?

This is one of the most important questions, and the answer is YES, when administered by highly trained professionals.

Dr. Fuentes and Dr. Thompson received extensive hospital-based training in anesthesia, including dedicated rotations in anesthesiology where they gained hands-on experience in airway management, IV sedation, and patient monitoring across a wide range of surgical settings. This level of training goes far beyond what is typically required and is a core part of their specialty education.

Because of this advanced background, they are highly skilled in selecting the appropriate level of sedation for each patient, continuously monitoring vital signs, and responding quickly to any changes during a procedure. Their expertise allows them to safely and comfortably provide IV sedation in an outpatient setting, giving patients a relaxed, controlled experience without the need for a hospital visit.

During your procedure, we continuously monitor:

• Heart rate
• Blood pressure
• Oxygen levels
• Breathing

Your safety is never left unattended.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR IV SEDATION?

Before your procedure, our team will provide clear instructions, which typically include:

• No food or drink for at least 6–8 hours prior
• Arranging for a responsible adult to drive you home
• Wearing comfortable clothing

We will review your medical history and answer all of your questions so you feel fully prepared.

WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE?

After your procedure, you will feel drowsy for several hours. Most patients go home and rest for the remainder of the day.

It is very common to have little or no memory of the procedure, which many patients consider a major benefit.
By the next day, most patients feel significantly more like themselves.

If fear or anxiety has been holding you back from getting the care you need, IV sedation can completely change your experience. With advanced training, careful monitoring, and a focus on patient comfort, our goal is to make your procedure as safe, smooth, and stress-free as possible.