Sedation

Feel at ease during your dental treatment

If you’re worried about having dental treatment, or feeling nervous about the thought of visiting the dentist, we’re here to help! Whether dental anxiety, potential pain or previous bad experiences are holding you back, IV sedation can make you feel more relaxed and comfortable in our care.

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Why have sedation?

What is IV sedation?

Intravenous (IV) sedation is a safe and highly effective way to help you feel comfortable in the dental practice and able to have the treatment you need. It eliminates your nerves and completely relaxes you, but you remain fully awake and able to communicate with your dentist. Most people remember very little, if any, of their dental procedure once the effects of the sedation wear off, making it a fantastic solution for nervous patients.

What does dental sedation treatment involve?

We always begin your dental sedation journey with a detailed consultation. We assess your general health and medical history, including taking your blood pressure and oxygen levels, to ensure you are suitable for sedation. We also discuss the procedure with you, in as much or as little detail as you are comfortable with.

We ensure the level of sedation we use is tailored to you. It is administered via a cannula into a vein into the back of your hand, and we are very happy to talk and distract you while this is happening. The sedation takes effect quickly, so we can begin your dental treatment, including giving any local anaesthetic, if necessary. We monitor you closely throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.

After your treatment, the effects of the sedation will take time to wear off. You will need a trusted friend or family member to take you home and stay with you for the rest of the day. We also give you some information and advice for your recovery over the next 24 hours.

Sedation FAQ’s

Yes, sedation is safe when carried out and monitored by a qualified and experienced professional. We prioritise your safety and well-being, and take time to help you feel fully prepared before your sedation treatment. As you remain conscious throughout, the deeper risks associated with general anaesthetic are avoided.
If you’re worried about an upcoming dental treatment and think sedation would help you feel more at ease, please talk to us. We want you to feel relaxed about your dental appointments and are very happy to discuss whether sedation is the right option for you.
To get ready, simply have a light meal one to two hours before you arrive and take your usual medications as prescribed. You will also need to arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you to your appointment. They’ll also need to drive you home and stay with you for the rest of the day while the effects of the sedation wear off.
Yes, you will be able to talk during your treatment. Even though you will be in a deeply relaxed state, you will remain conscious and able to answer questions and communicate with us throughout. Most people find they remember little to any of these conversations or the treatment once the sedation has worn off.
Yes, if your treatment typically requires local anaesthetic, we will still use this to minimise pain during and after the procedure. We always wait until the sedation has fully taken effect before administering it, and you will be so at ease that it is unlikely you will remember this.