I.V. sedation is a procedure in which a relaxing medicine is given usually in the hand or arm (which feels very similar to having a blood test done). The aim of I.V. sedation is to make you feel very relaxed and calm whilst having your dental care carried out. You will most likely not be [...]
During a general anesthetic, you are completely asleep and cannot be aroused. You need help with vital functions such as breathing which requires an anesthetist to be present. During I.V. sedation, you are relaxed but not asleep. You will be able to respond to conversation and you do not need medical assistance to maintain adequate [...]
No. A dentist is required to undergo special postgraduate training in order to be able to carry out I.V. sedation.
Most adults, over the age of 16, are suitable for I.V. sedation. However, some people with certain medical conditions may need to be referred to a special Medical Centre for I.V. sedation. An assessment appointment is always carried out prior to treatment to ensure that I.V. sedation is the best option for you.
Oral sedatives are very similar medicines to those used in I.V. sedation. However, as oral medicines are absorbed more slowly it is difficult to know how much medicine is required for the right level of sedation. Everyone receives a standard dose and depending on the patient, in some cases it may be too low or [...]
All dental care can be carried out whilst you are sedated. Some people are very anxious and have all their treatment carried out under sedation. Other people choose sedation only for a specific procedure they are nervous about, for example, the extraction of wisdom teeth.
After treatment under I.V. sedation, you will most likely feel tired and want to relax for the rest of the day. You will not be able to drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after sedation. Ideally, you should not care for small children on your own or carry out any tasks that could [...]
