Drugs used in this procedure are non-narcotic, so they are not responsible for blocking pain; however, they are effective in reducing fear and calming patients prior to and during procedures.
Drugs used in IV conscious sedation are members of the benzodiazepine (benzos) family.
Intravenous conscious sedation/analgesia aims to:
- Reduce or eliminate anxiety
- Minimize movement during dental treatment
- Enhance the clarity of communication and aid patient cooperation
- Temporarily increase one’s pain threshold
- Increase tolerance for longer appointments
- Aid in treatment of the mentally/physically disabled or medically compromised patient
- Reduce gagging
- Enhance the effect of sedatives