by Rana Baroudi
Dr. Baroudi is a Board Certified Periodontist. She has successfully passed the American Board of Periodontology oral and written examinations covering all phases of periodontal disease, its treatment and dental implants. She is also an Associate Clinical Professor of Periodontology at UCSF where she enjoys teaching and lecturing on a bi-monthly basis.
Learn MoreGum grafting is one of the most effective treatments for restoring a healthy gumline, protecting exposed tooth roots, and preventing further gum recession. Although it is a highly beneficial periodontal procedure, many patients feel anxious about the idea of oral surgery. Concerns about discomfort, sensitivity, or simply sitting through a long appointment often lead patients to postpone important care.
To help patients feel fully relaxed and confident during their procedure, Dr. Rana Baroudi offers IV Sedation as a safe and effective option for those undergoing gum grafting. With deeper relaxation, reduced awareness, and minimal memory of the procedure, IV Sedation can make gum grafting a smooth and stress-free experience.
This article explains how IV Sedation enhances patient comfort, why it’s often recommended for gum grafts, and what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure designed to restore lost gum tissue and halt the progression of gum recession. Recession can occur due to periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, genetics, orthodontic treatment, or trauma. When the gumline pulls away, the exposed roots become sensitive and vulnerable to decay, abrasion, and bone loss.
During gum grafting treatment, healthy tissue is placed in areas where the gums have receded. Over time, this grafted tissue integrates seamlessly, creating a stronger, healthier, and more natural-looking gumline.
While gum grafting is a routine and predictable procedure in periodontics, it still requires precision and careful handling of delicate tissue. For many patients, pairing gum grafting with IV Sedation offers an ideal balance between comfort and effectiveness.
IV Sedation is a moderate to deep level of sedation delivered intravenously, allowing your periodontist to tailor the level of relaxation throughout the procedure. Unlike oral sedation or nitrous oxide, IV Sedation works quickly and provides a deeper, more controlled calming effect. Many patients drift into a light sleep or feel as though the procedure passes in moments.
IV Sedation is administered and monitored by trained professionals, ensuring patient safety and comfort from start to finish. Its ability to reduce awareness, eliminate anxiety, and minimize discomfort makes it especially valuable during periodontal surgeries such as gum grafting.
IV Sedation is commonly recommended for gum grafting because it creates a calm, pain-free experience while allowing the periodontist to focus fully on precision and technique. Below are several reasons patients benefit from IV Sedation during this procedure.
Gum grafting requires meticulous surgical technique, and patients are often more comfortable when they can remain still and relaxed throughout the appointment. IV Sedation induces a deep state of relaxation, easing tension in the body and reducing the emotional stress associated with periodontal surgery.
Many patients appreciate that, with IV Sedation, they remember very little or nothing about the procedure. Even if they remain partially responsive, the experience feels calm and distant. This is especially helpful for individuals with:
IV Sedation begins working almost immediately and can be adjusted in real time based on the patient’s needs. This allows for a predictable, consistent experience throughout the grafting process.
A gum graft may take more time depending on the number of teeth involved and whether tissue is being taken from the patient’s palate or a donor source. IV Sedation ensures comfort throughout the duration of the surgery, making it easier for patients to tolerate longer procedures without stress or fatigue.
Some individuals simply prefer to be deeply relaxed during surgical treatment, even if they don’t identify as anxious. IV Sedation offers peace of mind and the most comfortable path toward restoring gum health.
Knowing what happens before, during, and after a gum graft with IV Sedation can help ease nerves and prepare you for your appointment.
Your periodontist will conduct a medical review to ensure IV Sedation is safe for you. This includes:
You will need a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment, as the effects of IV Sedation can last for several hours.
Once you arrive, the sedation specialist will place a small IV line, usually in your arm or hand. The sedative begins working quickly, creating a sense of deep calm and comfort. Throughout the procedure, your vital signs and sedation depth are closely monitored.
Your gum grafting procedure will then begin. Depending on the type of graft selected—such as connective tissue graft, free gingival graft, or donor tissue graft—the periodontist will prepare the site and carefully place the new tissue. IV Sedation ensures you remain comfortable and unaware throughout the process.
Once the surgery is complete, the IV is removed and you will rest comfortably until you are ready to leave. Post-operative instructions will be reviewed, covering:
Most patients report that time seems to pass very quickly and that they remember very little about the procedure.
Choosing IV Sedation for gum grafting offers several important benefits:
Because gum grafting is a valuable long-term investment in oral health, pairing it with IV Sedation ensures the process is as comfortable and positive as possible.
IV Sedation is appropriate for many gum grafting patients, especially those who:
During your consultation, Dr. Baroudi will review your health history and determine whether IV Sedation is the best choice for your needs.
Gum grafting is one of the most effective ways to restore gum health, protect your smile, and prevent future complications. IV Sedation makes the experience smoother, calmer, and far more comfortable, allowing patients to receive the care they need without stress or worry.
At Dr. Baroudi’s San Jose periodontal practice, patient comfort and safety are always top priorities. With advanced sedation methods, expert surgical techniques, and a compassionate approach, our team ensures a supportive environment from consultation through recovery.
If you are considering gum grafting and want to explore whether IV Sedation is right for you, our team is here to help. During your consultation, we will discuss your treatment goals, review your medical history, and recommend a sedation plan that meets your comfort needs.
Discover how IV Sedation can make your gum grafting procedure comfortable, smooth, and stress-free.
