IV sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation or conscious intravenous sedation is where a drug is administered through an injection normally in the back of the hand to make patient feel like they are asleep. IV sedation does not actually induce sleep; instead, the patient actually remain conscious and can follow instructions from your dentist. However, intravenous sedation will reduce the anxiety you feel and there will be a feeling of relaxation and calmness. It is extremely safe and very useful for patients who have a strong gag reflex.

The procedure of intravenous sedation does not affect the dental treatment and can be performed for every dental treatment. Once you are sedated, the dentist will proceed with your dental treatment. Conscious intravenous sedation has been developed to allow patients to have their fears and anxieties reduced then they could comfortably allow dental treatment to take place. It has many advantages which include:

– There is no need to stay in hospital

– The risks and inconveniences of having a general anaesthetic are eliminated

– The patient remains conscious

– The level of anxiety is reduced

– The drug used is very effective. Most patients do not remember the treatment which has taken place during the sedation.

What to Expect

 On the day of your dental sedation, monitors are set up to assess Blood Pressure, Oxygen Saturation, Pulse Rate and an electrocardiogram (ECG) is placed to monitor the heart both before and during the dental procedure. Once fitness for IV sedation has been established, an intravenous line is set-up. Sedative and pain-relieving drugs are administered via this IV line and instant relaxation is felt within a few minutes allowing the dentist to initiate the dental procedure needed.