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Conscious Sedation Dentistry
Conscious sedation is used in dentistry to help anxious and nervous patients overcome their fears and enable them to benefit from dental treatments which would otherwise be impossible for them.
It can also be used to reduce or eliminate gag reflexes or reduce tremors associated with conditions such as Parkinson’s, which would make treatment difficult.
Additionally, it is used for non-anxious patients to make treatments more comfortable.
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Intravenous (IV) Sedation
Intravenous sedation is used to help relax you during minor surgical procedures. While sedated you will usually feel calm, drowsy and vaguely aware of your surroundings.
The sedative is given by injection into a vein (intravenous) in your arm or the back of your hand. You will always remain conscious and able to talk and respond to instructions.
You will also receive local anaesthetic (an injection into your gums) to prevent any pain during treatment.
Afterwards you will probably have little or no memory of the procedure.
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Some Rules For IV Sedation
If you are having intravenous (IV) sedation, there are some rules that you must follow for your safety:
- A responsible adult (friend or relative) must stay in the department during your
treatment and drive you home afterwards; if not, you cannot have sedation. - Remember, to tell your oral surgeon before your treatment of any changes in your medical history, your medication and if you have asthma or any allergies
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Helps Nervous Patients Receive The Treatment They Need
Makes Longer Treatments More Comfortable For Patients
Enables Nervous Patients To Restore Trust In The Dentist
Painless And Hassle-Free Procedure
Professional, Relaxing And Friendly Environment
We Are Always Available To Answer Any Questions Or Concerns You Have
What Is Sedation Dentistry and How Does It Work?
- Is Sedation Safe?
- How Does It Work?
- Possible Effects
- Pre Sedation Information
- After Treatment Under Sedation
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Is Sedation Safe?
Sedation has a long history of safe usage within dental practice, and our sedation trained staff have carried out hundreds of cases of sedation over the years.
However, as with all treatments, there are some people who should not undergo sedation for various reasons and they include:
- Pregnancy
- Respiratory problems
- Allergy to or dependency on benzodiazepines
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Certain types of Glaucoma
- Patients with severe systemic disease (ASA III and above)
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How Does It Work?
Sedation is achieved by using medication which is either delivered orally (by a tablet or a drink), or through a vein (intravenous or IV).
The medication acts on your brain to reduce feelings of anxiety and fear, and induce a state of relaxation and calm.
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Possible Effects
It also has the added advantage of producing amnesia during the treatment – meaning you will have little or no recollection of your dental treatment when it wears off.
Time passes very quickly when you are under sedation.
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Pre Sedation Information
Prior to attending the clinic, on the day of your treatment:
- You can have a light meal up to 2 hours before your treatment if you wish
- You can drink fluids but do not drink any alcohol
- Treatment and recovery time are usually between 1 and 2 hours
- Take any regular medications as normal prior to attending
- Please avoid wearing nail varnish and shellac as this interferes with the monitoring equipment and may result in your appointment being rescheduled
- You must arrange for a responsible adult to attend the appointment and bring you home by private car or taxi following your surgery, and stay with you for 24 hours following your sedation. You must not take public transport
- Please let us know if you think you may be pregnant or if you are breastfeeding
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After Treatment Under Sedation
It can take up to 24 hours for the sedative drugs to fully leave your system. During this time your ability to think clearly can be affected and your normal reaction times may be delayed.
- A responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you for at least 6 hours following the treatment. You must not travel home by public transport such as a bus.
- You should stay at home resting quietly for about 24 hours.
- Do not drive a car, drink alcohol, use machinery (such as a kettle or a bike), do any work or make important decisions for 24 hours, to allow the effects of the sedation to wear off.
- You can eat and drink normally as soon as you feel like it.
- If you have any pain then do not hesitate to take the pain killers as directed
A responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you for at least 6 hours following the treatment. You must not travel home by public transport such as a bus.
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Commonly Asked Questions
How much does sedation dentistry cost?
Intravenous (IV) sedation costs €200 at 3Dental.
How does it work?
You will be given a medication called Midazolam which produces an altered state of consciousness and relieves any anxiety you might have.
It is most effective when given intravenously (through a vein).
Will I be asleep?
You will still remain conscious, but while sedated you will feel calm, drowsy, and time will pass quite quickly.
To be fully asleep you would require a General Anaesthetic (GA), which is only available in a hospital setting.
Should I fast before my sedation?
No, we prefer you to have a light meal 1-2 hours before the procedure.
Will my mouth also be numbed?
Yes, even with sedation your mouth will also be numbed to make the procedure completely comfortable for you.
Do I need to bring someone with me?
Yes, you cannot have sedation done unless you have a responsible adult to bring you home in a car or taxi. You cannot take public transport.
What do I need to prepare?
The one thing that is very useful is to remove any nail varnish or false nails from at least one fingernail.
We use some monitoring equipment during your sedation which can be affected if your fingernail is covered.
What can I not do afterwards?
It can take up to 24 hours for the sedative drug to leave your system. During this time you cannot:
1) Drive a vehicle or cycle.
2) Use electrical appliances, cook or operate machinery.
3) Care for small children or dependant adults.
4) Sign important documents.
5) Drink alcohol or take recreational drugs.
6) Breastfeeding should be avoided for 24 hours.
I take a few medications, can I still get sedation?
Please bring a list of your medications to your consultation. Your dentist will discuss your medical history and will determine whether or not you are suitable for sedation.
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