Treating Anxious Patients
IV SEDATION
Sedation can be provided for anxious patients undergoing dental treatment. While under sedation you will feel deeply relaxed but will still be able to understand and respond; you will be fully in control. However, you will be unaware of the dental procedure and this form of treatment is ideal for patients who wish to avoid the noise and vibration of our equipment.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?
Provides gentle relaxation
You are fully in control and awake
You will be much less anxious and you will feel relaxed
You may feel sleepy
You will be unaware of the procedure
You will have little or no memory of the procedure
WHAT IS SEDATION?
An effective way to treat the most nervous of patients is via intravenous sedation (injection). The drugs have a relaxing and calming effect but don’t prevent communication between dentist and patient so treatment can still be carried out easily. Weight, age and medical condition must be assessed before suitability for this kind of sedation is determined but this would all be discussed during the consultation with the dentist.
HOW WILL IV SEDATION IN THE SURGERY AFFECT ME?
Whilst IV sedation will make you drowsy and unaware of the treatment you are undergoing, you will remain lucid 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.
WILL I EVER FEEL DIFFERENTLY ABOUT VISITING THE DENTIST?
It is highly likely! As you get to know and trust our team (dentists, hygienist and nurses!), we hope your fears will dampen. In time you will come to see your regular visit to the dentist as just another part of your normal life.