We understand that every patient is different and sometimes, sedation can help patients feel more at ease with their treatments. We welcome many patients with different levels of dental phobia each year and will always do our upmost to approach this with empathy and ensure you feel totally comfortable about visiting us.
When is sedation used?
Dental sedation can be used for longer procedures as well as for counteracting conditions such as limited mouth-opening and poor gag. Sedation is safe and effective and will result in the patient feeling very sleepy with no recall of the treatment they have undergone.
Sedation and administration
There are three different techniques used:
- Temazepam – administered orally as a pre-med before the treatment.
- Midazolam – administered intravenously at the time of surgery.
- Gas & Air – nitrous oxide and oxygen via a nose piece.
We find that the intravenous method is the most popular with patients as the effects are stronger. In the case of children, gaseous sedation is particularly effective as it is slightly milder but will still help your child feel relaxed throughout the procedure – this is also favourable for less anxious patients and less demanding procedures.
More about Conscious Intravenous Sedation
Also known as IV, Conscious Intravenous Sedation is an additional option to General Anaesthetic in cases such as for difficult procedures or if a patient is anxious. Patients will be required to undergo an assessment beforehand so that suitability can be evaluated for IV sedation.
Before undergoing your treatment and sedation
You will need to observe the following before undergoing sedation:
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing with short sleeves.
- Go to the toilet before your procedure.
- Please have a light meal several hour before .do not starve yourself
- Bring someone along with you who can be responsible for your well-being after treatment. It is a legal requirement.
Conor Shields, principal of Shields, possesses 20 years of extensive experience with a postgraduate diploma from Guys Dental hospital. Conor is patient and has spent many years putting patients at ease about their treatment and is always happy to discuss what the best option is for the patient in question.
If you would like more information about sedation and your options, please contact us to arrange a consultation where our practitioners will be happy to discuss this with you.
