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Conscious Sedation

We offer intra-venous (IV) sedation for complex dental treatments and for nervous patients with dental anxiety. 

What is intravenous (IV) sedation?

IV sedation is when a sedative is given into a vein in your hand or arm. If you are nervous about having dental treatment or you are having a procedure which may be more complex, intravenous (IV) sedation is an effective and safe treatment.

 

Why do I need IV sedation?

It is an ideal way of helping you accept dental treatment and relax throughout the dental procedure.

 

What are the benefits?

While under IV sedation, you will feel deeply relaxed but you will still be able to understand and respond to requests from the dentist. You may be unaware of the operation and this form of treatment is ideal for patients who wish to avoid the noise and vibration of the drill and allow acceptance of local anaesthetic.

 
Are there any risks?

IV sedation is safe when it is supervised or carried out by a specially trained dentist. A sedation assessment is needed where we will check that sedation in the practice is right for you. The sedation at Kingston Park is performed by a sedation qualified dentist who is not the same dentist performing the treatment. Having a dedicated sedationist means that they can focus on your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. 

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IV sedation has four main effects:

  • It will reduce your anxiety and make you feel relaxed.

  • It will can you feel sleepy.

  • It will make you less aware of the procedure.

  • It will result in partial – or total loss of memory of the procedure.

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Do I need to prepare for IV sedation?

  • Take your routine medicines at the usual times, unless advised otherwise.

  • Have a light meal 1-2 hours before you attend.

  • Do not take alcohol or recreational drugs including cannabis, 48 hours before your treatment.

  • Bring a responsible adult with you. This escort must be over the age of 18 and personally known to you. They must arrive and remain in the practice waiting room. They must be able to escort you home and care for you for the rest of the day.

  • Do not bring children or babies with you to your appointment. We will not undertake treatment if a child/baby comes with you or your escort.

  • Sedation is not possible if you are pregnant, so be sure to tell us.

  • Nursing mothers cannot breastfeed for 12 hours after sedation.

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What happens after IV sedation?

You will need to stay in our recovery area until you are considered ready to leave the practice. Recovery can take up to an hour. The effects of sedation can last up to 24 hours, for this time rest at home and:

  • Do not travel alone – travel home with your escort, by car if possible.

  • Do not drive or ride a bicycle or a motorcycle.

  • Do not use machinery.

  • Do not drink alcohol.

  • Do not return to work or sign legal documents or carry out any financial transactions.

  • Do not care for others.

  • Do not use social media.

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What does it cost?

  • The assessment with our sedation qualified dentist costs £50. This allows you to discuss the procedure, check you are suitable for sedation and ensure all your questions are answered before going ahead with treatment.

  • Intravenous sedation with a dedicated sedation qualified dentist and sedation qualified nurse £200/ session. There will also be the additional dental treatment fees.

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If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us, a friendly member of our team would be more than happy to discuss any issues you may have. We understand that visiting the dentist is not the top of peoples favorite things to do and we are happy to answer any query you have- don't worry if you think it is a silly question, you wont have been the first to ask!

Read about Gary's recent experience having sedation at the practice.

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"Although I had undergone many dentist visits over the years without issue or phobia; a recent period of ill health had left me with a high degree of anxiety for a root canal procedure.

My dentist initially thought that having sedation to assist would not be an option due to the longer term nature of the procedure. However, he referred me to Andrew Gemmell, who confirmed that sedation was an option. My initial consultation with Andrew put my mind at ease. It was immediately obvious that he was highly skilled; whilst also being patient and understanding of my concerns.

Andrew was supported by Emily, a Dentist specialising in administrating sedation. After a small injection in my arm I felt incredibly chilled and the next 60 minutes passed by without me having a care in the world whilst the initial work was completed. Although conscious, I felt completely at ease and I was able to respond and communicate with Andrew and Emily at all times. 3 weeks later the procedure was repeated to finish my treatment; another effortless experience.

I would hugely recommend anybody who has concerns or worries regarding pending dental treatment to consider visiting Andrew. As well as being an expert in his field, he has a wonderful ‘bedside manner’ . Certainly if you are putting off any treatment because of worries/fears, I would say this is an excellent option."

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