Conscious Sedation

Do you feel anxious about seeing your dentist? If the answer is yes, then we can help. Some people are so frightened of the dentist that they avoid dental treatment altogether, but we are sympathetic in recognising that some patients experience real anxiety. Confidental has developed new techniques and approaches to help.

Modern dentistry is very customer-focused and as such, a range of sedation and relaxation techniques have been developed to help anxious patients overcome their fears.

What is sedation dentistry?

Dental sedation or more specifically intra-venous sedation involves the use of a sedation drug, which will relax you and relieve any anxiety you may have about your treatment. In addition to this, it will in most cases, help you forget your treatment appointment. It is, therefore, important that you understand what is involved in the sedation, what treatment is proposed and what you need to do afterwards because explanations given on the day of treatment will probably be forgotten.

How does IV sedation affect me?

Whilst IV sedation will make you drowsy and unaware of the treatment you are undergoing, you will remain awake enough to communicate and cooperate with the dental team. The effects of the sedative will take time to wear off and you won’t be able to drink alcohol, drive or work machinery during this time so it is important that someone can help you home after treatment and keep a careful eye on you for some time afterwards. Your dentist will tell you how long it will be before the drugs are completely clear from your body.

What is the process?

A sedative drug is administered through a special tube which is attached to your arm/hand. The sedation drug will make you relaxed and sleepy. We wait until the level of sedation is enough to carry out the treatment. No treatment will be carried out until this is achieved. You will remain conscious throughout the visit and will be able to talk to the dentist. You will be monitored during the procedure. On completion, the tube will be removed, and you will wait at the practice until we feel you are ready to leave.

(click here to download our pre-sedation leaflet)

Will I ever feel differently about visiting the dentist?

It is highly likely! As you get to know and trust your dentist, hygienist and other members of the dental team at your practice, your fears will diminish. In time you will come to see your regular visit to the dentist as just another part of your normal life.

For more information regarding this treatment