CarolinasDentist Blog

What Is IV Sedation Dentistry?

Drawing of a hand receiving IV sedation during their dental treatment to help them feel calm

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

IV sedation can be used with virtually any dental treatment to help patients feel more relaxed in the dental chair. It is for patients who need just a little help feeling calmer during their treatment and for patients who experience moderate to severe dental anxiety and fear.

What Does IV Sedation Feel Like?

IV sedation does not render patients unconscious, but it can hinder memories from being formed while helping patients be less aware of their surroundings and specific details. Because of this, you may remember very little to nothing about your appointment.

This type of sedation is also called “sleep dentistry” or “twilight sleep.” This is because patients often feel like they are in a dream. Their reflexes are slowed and you will experience mental fogginess. We require someone be available to drive you home after your appointment to give you time to fully “wake up” and feel alert again.

Is IV Sedation Safe?

Patient safety is the number one priority for our team. We will always ensure that any treatment we recommend for a patient will be both safe and effective for them to utilize. In addition to reviewing your medical history, current health status, and treatment plan, we will provide you with instructions before and after your visit to help you prepare for your appointment and have a smooth recovery post-treatment. We also monitor you throughout the entire treatment. Should you have any questions or concerns at any point in the process, our team would be more than happy to assist.

Interested in adding sedation dentistry to your treatment plan? Please contact one our CarolinasDentist locations today or ask about it during your next visit. We will be glad to offer more information and discuss whether or not IV sedation is right for you.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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