Sedation

At Ringway Dental we’re able to provide our more nervous patients with the option of sedation to help them feel more comfortable and calm when receiving treatment.

How does sedation work?

Sedation has to be carried out by a trained and highly skilled clinician who will remain with the patient throughout the treatment to make sure they are stable and to monitor vital signs. There are three different types of sedation available, including oral, inhalation, and intravenous or IV. 

All three use a combination of drugs that help the patient feel calm and less anxious while remaining conscious. For some it feels a little like being put into a dream-like state – you will be awake, but unaware of what is happening around you, and you may even feel as though no time has passed at all.

Is sedation safe?

Sedation is very safe and is always administered by a specialist clinician. In rare instances, some patients may experience side effects such as nausea, irritation or bruising at the site of injection if IV sedation has been used. 

Will I need someone to go home with me?

Sedation offers a much quicker recovery time than general anaesthetic, but we will require you to be escorted home by a friend or family member after receiving sedation. You will possibly still feel tired for a while after the treatment, and it is advised that you avoid the following for 24 hours:

• Alcohol, recreational drugs and sleeping pills
• Operating machinery or cooking
• Driving or riding a bike
• Signing important or legal documents
• Looking after children or other dependents

Contact us at Ringway Dental to find out more about any of our treatments or book a consultation.