IV sedation is revolutionizing dentistry for both patients and practices, providing a safe and effective way to alleviate anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures.
Let’s explore the benefits of IV sedation under four key areas: 1) patient experience; 2) safety; 3) practice efficiency; 4) production & profitability.
IV sedation can be a suitable option for various patients, particularly those who experience dental anxiety, fear, or phobia.
It’s also beneficial to these other groups:
The calming effects of IV sedation help alleviate these anxieties, providing a more comfortable and stress-free dental experience.
Patients often have no memory of the procedure. This “procedural amnesia” contributes to their overall positive experience.
Although there are many apprehensions and even some misconceptions around the safe practice of IV sedation, we’re here to show that with the right training, instruction, and experience, IV sedation is one of the safest and most effective ways to practice dentistry.
Here’s why…
The onset of action of IV-administered drugs is rapid (approximately 20-25 seconds). And unlike PO, there’s not much individual variation.
Because of the rapid onset of action, dosages may be tailored to the patient’s needs. This means that the guesswork with other routes of administration is eliminated. With titration, a suitable level of sedation can be achieved.
The recovery period with IV drug administration will be shorter than with other routes of administration (PO/IM). Finally, the venous access remains patent throughout the procedure. If needed, this provides emergency access to deliver reversal meds.
IV sedation allows dentists to work in a controlled environment, free from patient stress or movement. This control enables dentists to perform multiple procedures in a single visit, reducing the need for multiple appointments and saving patients valuable time.
Furthermore, this leads to higher-quality dentistry. A patient whose mouth is open and remains still is much easier and more enjoyable to work on than the typical dental patient who requires breaks, may have a bad gag reflex, or is constantly moving in the chair.
According to Dr. Scott Sayre, who was featured on the DEO Growth Secrets podcast, “You can DOUBLE and TRIPLE your case average on every patient by doing sedation.”
When you make the patient comfortable, it opens up a whole world of possibilities.
Now, you can do the root canal, crown, five fillings, and two extractions in one appointment. So, how does this impact your daily production?
You could go from the average dentist (with a daily production goal of $5,000) to easily hitting $10k to $15k per day.
Moreover, IV sedation patients pre-pay. They aren’t worried about insurance. Rather, they have a mouthful of pain. They have an uncontrollable amount of fear. If you can alleviate those two problems, you will be able to create a dental life that’s fulfilling and profitable.
On average, general practitioners bill $502 per practice hour while specialists bill $563 for each hour. However, IV sedation allows you to manage more invasive treatments in a single visit, increasing both the efficiency and profitability of your practice. This brings your practice closer to specialist-level earnings. With IV sedation, you can work less and earn more, maximizing your schedule for production and efficiency.
Offering IV sedation is a great way to increase your practice’s profitability.
IV sedation offers you powerful advantages that make dental visits more comfortable, manageable, and even stress-free.
1) Comfort & Anxiety Relief
You’ll feel deeply relaxed—but not fully unconscious—so you stay calm and in control.
Time seems to pass quickly, making even long procedures feel easier.
It’s especially helpful if you have dental phobia, anxiety, or a strong gag reflex.
2) Pain-Free Experience
You’ll feel little to no discomfort during treatment.
Higher levels of sedation mean your dental team can complete more work in one visit—without added stress for you.
3) Faster Recovery Than General Anesthesia
You’ll wake up more quickly and feel more alert after your procedure.
When administered correctly, IV sedation comes with minimal side effects, so you can get back to your day sooner.
Our program goes beyond certification – it’s a pathway to a more focused, profitable, and fulfilling dental life.
Goldman Dental Management
Nationally Approved PACE Program Provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
10/1/2025 to 9/30/2029. Provider ID# 412871
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Completion of this course does not constitute authorization for the attendee to perform any services that he or she is not legally authorized to perform based on his or her license or permit type.