Dental Treatment Under Sedation
Intra Venous Sedation is a technique used for patients aged over 18 years, who are generally fit and well. It is usually delivered via a small plastic tube in the back of the hand or arm. A sedative medication called midazolam is given through this tube. For patients who are anxious about needles, we can also use Emla cream to numb the back of the hand in advance.
Commonly, patients receiving intravenous conscious sedation are more deeply sedated compared with inhalation conscious sedation. Most patients usually have significant memory loss of the procedure following intravenous conscious sedation, but some patients may remember small details of the procedure and a very small minority of patients may have good memory of the events during the procedure.
Stage 1 - Consultation
a chat about your concerns, options open to you and what you hope to achieve
The aim of this visit is to allow you to become aware of all of the options open to you and discuss with the dentist what treatments you hope to have carried out under sedation. We are able to offer many ways of beating your fear from our medication free "Nervous Patient Programme" through to full IV sedation. We will ask you to complete a medical questionnaire and agree together what treatments you wish to have provided under sedation.
Stage 2 - Treatment Visit
The day when you attend to have your treatment carried out
At this visit you will be sedated and have the planned treatment carried out. Although most patients feel fine after sedation it is recommended that you do not drive, operate machinery or sign any legal documents for 24 hours after treatment. Patients do require another competent adult with them to ensure safe transportation home. Our team are there to support you every step of the way and will make sure you are comfortable and safe throughout treatment.