If the thought of periodontal surgery makes your stomach drop, you’re not alone. For many people, the anxiety is the hardest part, not the procedure itself.
At Turows Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Grand Haven, we offer moderate IV sedation for select periodontal and implant-related surgeries, so you can feel calm, comfortable, and cared for from start to finish.
If you’ve been delaying treatment because you’re nervous, IV sedation can be the bridge that makes care feel doable.
IV Sedation, in Plain English
IV sedation is when medication is given through a small IV, and helps you to relax during your procedure. Most patients feel drowsy, and many remember little afterward. You will still be able to respond to simple directions, and our team monitors you closely the entire time.
Quick Info Regarding IV Sedation:
- Goal: Profound relaxation and minimal awareness during surgery
- How it’s given: Through an IV in your arm or hand
- How you’ll feel: Calm, sleepy, like time passes quickly
- Safety: Continuous monitoring + dedicated safety protocols
- What you will need:
- To follow the pre-operative instructions that will be given to you prior to your procedure.
- A driver (who stays in the office during the procedure) & time to rest afterward
When IV Sedation Is a Good Fit
IV sedation is commonly a fit for patients who:
- Feel anxious about surgery (even if you’ve “powered through” dentistry before)
- Have a low pain tolerance or strong sensitivity
- Have a hard time staying comfortable for longer appointments
- Want to complete treatment in one planned, focused visit
- Have postponed needed care due to fear
Safe, Monitored Care You Can Trust
Your comfort matters, and so does your safety.
Before recommending sedation, we complete a careful review of your health history and medications. Sometimes this means corresponding with your physician for any additional needed information/clearance.
During sedation, we use medical-grade monitoring to track oxygen levels and vital signs throughout your appointment.
What that looks like in real life:
- Thoughtful pre-appointment screening
- Continuous monitoring during your procedure
- A trained clinical team following consistent safety protocols
- Clear instructions before and after, so you’re never guessing what to do next
What to Expect
Before Your Appointment
- Screening & health history review (and a sedation form)
- Physician clearance may be needed for some medical conditions
- Arrange a driver: A driver is required and must remain in our office during your appointment
- Fasting (NPO): Nothing to eat or drink for 6 hours before your appointment (unless we give you different instructions)
During Your Procedure
- We’ll help you settle in, review the plan, then start the IV
- Sedation is adjusted based on your comfort and response
- Most patients feel deeply relaxed and minimally aware of time passing
After Your Procedure
- Your driver will take you home
- You’ll rest for the remainder of the day
- You’ll receive clear post-op instructions and follow-up support
Cost and Billing
We’ll review sedation fees during your consultation so you can make a clear decision without pressure.
If you’d like to use financing, we can walk through options during your visit.
IV Sedation FAQs
Do I need someone to drive me?
Yes. A driver is required, and they must stay in our office for the duration of your appointment.
Will I be unconscious?
IV sedation is not the same as general anesthesia. You’ll be in a relaxed, sleepy state and can respond to simple directions. Most patients remember little afterward.
Is IV sedation safe?
For appropriate candidates, yes. That’s why we screen carefully beforehand and monitor you continuously during treatment.
How long will recovery take?
Plan to rest the remainder of the day. Most people feel more like themselves by the next day, but we will give you specific guidance based on your procedure.
How do I know if IV sedation is right for me?
At your consultation, we’ll review your health history, anxiety level, and procedure type and recommend the safest, most comfortable path.
Serving Grand Haven and West Michigan
Dr. Ashleigh Turows provides IV sedation in our Grand Haven office for select procedures, with continuous monitoring and a trained support team. Dedicated sedation blocks are available every other Monday.
Address: 17168 Timberview Drive, Suite B, Grand Haven, MI 49417
Proudly serving patients from Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Norton Shores, Muskegon, Holland, and surrounding West Michigan communities.