Intravenous & Inhalation Sedation

Dental anxiety is very common amongst patients, we understand that many patients feel anxious at the thought of having dental treatment. We are here to help you feel as relaxed and as comfortable as we can by providing Intravenous and Inhalation Sedation to ease symptoms of anxiety.
 

How does it feel?

Sedation brings on a complete state of relaxation. However, unlike general anaesthetic, it does not make you lose consciousness. You will not experience any pain during treatment and it is unlikely that you will remember much afterwards.
 

Will I still need local anaesthetic?

Yes, we give patients local anaesthetic as well as sedative medication to ensure that you do not feel pain during the procedure. Sedative is designed to relax rather than relieve or prevent pain. If you have a phobia of needles or you are anxious about the injection, don’t worry as we will administer  the local anaesthetic after you have been sedated.
 

Intravenous Sedation

Intravenous Sedation is used for all nervous patients, this goes into your blood supply via a small tube inserted in a vein. This is done in the back of the hand or the arm. Once the tube is in place the needle will be removed and the sedative passed into your vein.
 

Benefits of  Intravenous Sedation?

The main benefit is that it prevents patients from feeling nervous during dental treatment. It is the best option for patients who suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia and can also benefit patients who have a sensitive gag reflex. Patients remain conscious throughout the procedure and they will be able to hear and communicate with their dentist.
 

Inhalation Sedation

Nitrous Oxide Sedation is the lightest form of dental sedation and provides an adequate level of anesthesia and relaxation for the patient whilst the dentist caries out the treatment. Inhalation Sedation involves the patient breathing in a mixture of Nitrous Oxide Gas in combination with Oxygen which helps anxious patients to become more relaxed and co-operate during treatment. Inhalation Analgesia, another name for inhalation sedation, is a method of conscious sedation because the patient remains awake and conscious throughout the procedure and should not be confused with sleep dentistry which refers to unconscious sedation (general anesthesia).
 

Is the process safe?

This is a very safe procedure providing that it is administered by a trained anaesthetist. Many patients find that it is a great source of comfort when they are preparing to have treatment because it reduces anxiety and makes dental visits less stressful. If you have underlying health problems, an allergy or you are pregnant, you may be advised against having this form of sedation. We will determine if you are suitable during your consultation.

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What drugs are used?

We use sedative drugs branded as short-acting benzodiazepines including Midazolam for Intravenous Sedation. These drugs have the effects of reducing anxiety, inducing tiredness and causing partial or complete loss of memory. For Inhalation Sedation we use nitrous Oxide Gas in combination with Oxygen can help anxious patients to become more relaxed and co-operative during treatment without experiencing any pain.

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What happens afterwards?

Most patients feel fine after treatment but will not be discharged until you can walk unaided and are feeling normal again. You must have a responsible adult with you to escort you home and remain with you for the next 24 hours. You must not operate any machinery, cooker or power tools. No driving for at least 24 hours.

If you experience nausea have a lie down and rest. If you still experience side-effects after 24 hours contact us.