IV sedation is a technique used to reduce anxiety during a dental visit. A small cannula ( plastic tube) is placed into the vein in your arm or back of the hand and a sedative drug is administered. The sedative works quickly and you will feel relaxed within minutes. The dentist controls the level of sedation, aiming to make you feel relaxed within minutes whilst still being able to co-operate for treatment.
FAQs
What Is Intravenous Sedation?
Intravenous or IV sedation is a technique used to reduce anxiety during a dental visit. A small cannula (plastic tube) is placed into a vein in your arm or back of the hand and a sedative drug administered. The sedative works quickly and you will feel relaxed within minutes. The dentist controls the level of sedation, aiming to make you feel relaxed whilst still being able to co-operate for treatment. The full sedative effects last for about an hour allowing a lot of dental treatment to be carried out if necessary.
Will I remember the treatment?
The tooth is numbed and cleaned using special instruments in combination with antibacterial medicines. Once the tooth is cleaned and dried it is sealed and filled to prevent re-infection of the tooth.
What happens after the treatment session?
We keep you in our waiting room or in the dental chair as the sedative starts to wear off. Generally this takes between 15-30 minutes. We will only allow you to leave when we are happy that all is well. We will be on hand while you recover should you have any problems.
Will I feel sick afterwards?
No. Unlike a general anaesthetic, there is usually no feeling of nausea afterwards. This is due to the fact that very different drugs are used. You will, however, likely feel quite sleepy after your sedation and may well wish to take a nap.
My Friend wants to go shopping whilst I have my treatment, is that OK?
No. The responsible adult that accompanies you MUST arrive with you and remain in our waiting room for the entire treatment and recovery afterwards. They cannot leave the building. This is a legal requirement of the laws governing Dental Treatment under IV Sedation. Please prepare your escort for a wait of approximately 1 hour and advise them to bring e.g. a book/magazine to help pass the time as they will not be allowed to stay in the surgery with you during your treatment. If you are very nervous your escort may accompany you in surgery whilst you get cannulated but they will be asked to leave once the sedation begins.
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