Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 6/28/2007

Question
I'm a bit worried because i have a hole in my molar and I'm only 12.Abd the dentists said it needs to be taken out , So they sent me a letter saying your dentist has referred to us on having a iv Sedation treatment. I'm really scared incase it hurts or incase i mite die.

Thank you for the advice x


Answer
The purpose of the IV sedation is so that you won't be scared or have pain. They will still give you the local anesthesia, but they won't give it until you are well sedated, so it won't hurt you. Furthermore, you probably won't even remember going into the room. The likelihood of death is almost infinitesimal.

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston