IV Sedation Dentistry in Rapid City, SD

At Rapid City Smiles Implant & Family Dentistry, we understand that dental anxiety is real—and for some patients, it can be severe enough to delay critical care. That’s why we offer IV sedation dentistry, a safe and effective option for patients who need a deeper level of relaxation during their dental treatments.

IV sedation is administered intravenously, allowing for fast-acting, controlled sedation that can be adjusted in real-time. It’s ideal for patients undergoing lengthy procedures, those with high dental anxiety, or individuals who have trouble getting numb with local anesthesia alone.

IV sedation may be recommended for patients who:

• Experience moderate to severe dental anxiety
  
  
• Require multiple procedures in a single appointment
  
  
• Have a strong gag reflex or difficulty sitting still
  
  
• Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
  
  
• Need complex procedures such as dental implants or tooth extractions

We also offer other forms of sedation dentistry, including oral sedation and nitrous oxide, but IV sedation offers the highest level of relaxation available outside a hospital setting.

Before your appointment, Dr. Dan Graves will review your medical history to ensure IV sedation is safe and appropriate for you. On the day of your procedure:

1. Sedation is administered intravenously, typically in your arm or hand.
   
   
2. You’ll quickly feel calm and drowsy, though still able to respond to verbal cues.
   
   
3. Our team monitors your vitals throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
   
   
4. You may have little to no memory of the treatment afterward.
   
   
5. A friend or family member must drive you home as the effects take time to wear off.

This type of sedation is commonly used during treatments such as oral surgery, dental implant placement, or full-arch procedures like All-on-4 restorations.

Dr. Graves and our clinical team are trained and certified in administering IV sedation, ensuring that you receive expert care in a safe, comfortable environment. Our practice stands out because:

• We offer a full suite of sedation options to meet every need.
  
  
• Patient safety is our top priority, with continuous monitoring throughout.
  
  
• We treat patients with empathy and respect, helping them rebuild trust in dentistry.
  
  
• Our state-of-the-art office in Rapid City is equipped with the latest technology for comfort-focused care.

IV sedation is often combined with restorative or cosmetic procedures, including CEREC same-day crowns or smile makeovers, to streamline your treatment plan and reduce the number of visits.

IV Sedation Dentistry FAQs

1. Will I be unconscious with IV sedation?: No. IV sedation is considered “conscious sedation,” meaning you’re relaxed and semi-awake, but you likely won’t remember the procedure.
   
   
2. Is IV sedation safe?: Yes. IV sedation is very safe when administered by trained professionals. We monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels throughout the procedure.
   
   
3. How long does the sedation last?: The effects of IV sedation can last for several hours, which is why you’ll need someone to drive you home and monitor you post-treatment.
   
   
4. Can I eat before my sedation appointment?: No. You’ll need to fast for 6–8 hours before your procedure. We will provide detailed pre-op instructions during your consultation.
   
   
5. Does dental insurance cover IV sedation?: Some insurance plans cover IV sedation when it’s medically necessary. Our front office will verify your benefits and help you understand your out-of-pocket costs.

Schedule Your IV Sedation Consultation in Rapid City

If dental anxiety is keeping you from getting the care you need, contact us today to ask about IV sedation. Visit Rapid City Smiles at 1801 Mt Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD—we’re here to make your dental care safe, comfortable, and stress-free.