What is Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax during dental treatment. It does not necessarily mean you will be asleep. Depending on the type of sedation used, you may feel drowsy, calm or deeply relaxed while remaining responsive enough to follow instructions from your dentist. The level of sedation is matched to your needs, your anxiety level and the type of treatment being carried out.

Sedation can be helpful for patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia, find it difficult to sit still for longer appointments, have a strong gag reflex, or need several procedures completed in one visit.

Sedation Options at Totally Smiles

Nitrous Oxide (Happy Gas) 

Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a small mask that sits over your nose. It helps you feel calm and relaxed during treatment, and the effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed. Most patients are able to drive themselves home after a nitrous oxide appointment, making it a convenient option for routine or shorter procedures. 

Oral Sedation 

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative tablet before your appointment. It produces a deeper level of relaxation than nitrous oxide, and while you will remain conscious, you may feel drowsy and have limited memory of the procedure afterwards. Because the effects take time to wear off, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. 

IV Sedation 

IV sedation is administered through a vein and provides a deeper level of relaxation, which can be adjusted throughout the procedure. It is expertly and safely provided by a trained professional with IV sedation qualifications. Your dentist will perform the dental procedures whilst the IV sedation provider is dedicated to your sedation experience with closely monitoring.  It is often recommended for patients with significant dental anxiety or for longer, more complex treatments. You will remain conscious but deeply relaxed, and most patients remember very little of the appointment. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours afterwards.

Not every sedation option is available at every centre, and your dentist will recommend the most appropriate method based on your medical history, anxiety level and the treatment planned. 

How Sedation Dentistry Works 

Step one — Consultation. Your dentist discusses your dental needs, medical history and any concerns you have about treatment. Together, you decide on the sedation option that suits your situation. 

Step two — Preparation. Your dentist provides instructions to follow before your appointment, which may include fasting or arranging transport depending on the type of sedation. 

Step three — Treatment. The sedation is administered before or at the start of your appointment, and your dentist carries out the planned treatment while you are relaxed and comfortable. Your vital signs are monitored throughout. 

Step four — Recovery. After your procedure, you are monitored until you are ready to leave. For oral and IV sedation, you will need someone to take you home, and your dentist will provide aftercare instructions for the rest of the day. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Yes. Sedation is administered by trained dental professionals, and your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure. Your dentist will review your medical history beforehand to confirm that sedation is appropriate for you. 

Will I be asleep during treatment?

Not usually. Most sedation options keep you conscious but deeply relaxed. You may feel drowsy and have little memory of the procedure afterwards, but you are generally able to respond to your dentist during treatment. 

Can I drive home after sedation?

If you have had nitrous oxide only, you can usually drive yourself home. For oral or IV sedation, you will need someone to drive you and it is recommended that you rest for the remainder of the day. 

Is sedation available for children?

Sedation options for children vary by centre and by the child’s age and medical history. Speak with your dentist about whether sedation is suitable for your child.