Everything You Need to Know About Dental Sedation

If the mere thought of going to the dentist or sitting in a dental chair makes your heart race, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is incredibly common, and for some, it can be downright paralysing.

Whether it’s the sound of the drill, past negative experiences, or just an overwhelming fear of the unknown, you might just have a dental phobia that’s preventing you from getting the help you need.

But, avoiding dental care can take a toll on your oral health. The good news is that dental sedation can change the way you experience dental treatment, turning an uncomfortable experience into a positive one.

Read on for everything you need to know about dental sedation and how it could help you on your next trip to the dentist.

How Sedation Dentistry Can Help You

Imagine walking into a dental practice feeling calm and leaving with a healthier, brighter smile, without the stress. That’s exactly what sedation dentistry can offer.

With various levels of sedation available, from mild relaxation to deep sedation where you may not even remember the procedure, your comfort is our priority.

And sedation isn’t just about easing nerves; it can be a game-changer for good. Dental sedation can help you if you experience intense dental anxiety, have a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth, need extensive or multiple procedures in one visit, struggle with a strong gag reflex, or have difficulty sitting still for extended periods.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry or conscious sedation, uses medication to help you feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. So much so that it’s often called ‘sleep dentistry.’

But there’s a twist: you’re not actually asleep. Instead, you’ll remain awake yet completely at ease, with little to no memory of the procedure afterwards.

Conscious sedation creates a dreamlike state where anxiety melts away, and discomfort is significantly reduced. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, sedation dentistry ensures a smooth, stress-free experience so you can get the dental care you need without worry.

Conscious Sedation Options

Dental sedation will be tailored to your needs. Depending on the level of anxiety and the procedure, you may be offered:

Inhalation Sedation (Laughing Gas)

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is delivered through a small mask placed over your nose. Within minutes, the nitrous oxide creates a soothing, light-headed sensation, helping you feel at ease while remaining fully aware. Inhaled minimal sedation has calming effects and will wear off soon after your procedure.

Oral Sedation

With oral sedation, you’ll take a prescribed pill before your appointment, allowing you to enter a relaxed state before treatment begins. Depending on the medication and dosage, this method provides mild to moderate sedation, helping to ease anxiety while keeping you responsive.

Intravenous Sedation

Administered through a tiny needle directly into a vein, intravenous or IV sedation works quickly to bring on a deep state of relaxation. One of its biggest advantages is that your dentist can continually adjust the dosage, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your procedure.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Absolutely. Dental sedation is a well-established and carefully monitored process designed to help you relax while ensuring your safety every step of the way. At Vogue Dental, our experienced team tailors the sedation to your needs, adjusting it as necessary to keep you comfortable throughout your treatment.

Serious side effects are rare, and we take every precaution to make sure your experience is both smooth and stress-free.

If you’re receiving IV sedation, you’ll need a friend or family member to take you home, as the effects take a little longer to wear off compared to oral or inhalation sedation. Your wellbeing is always our top priority, and we’re here to provide expert care in the safest possible way.

What Does It Feel Like To Be Sedated?

Imagine sinking into a comfy chair, feeling completely at ease as the world around you fades into a peaceful blur – that’s what dental sedation feels like. It’s designed to melt away anxiety and discomfort.

Most patients describe the sensation as calm and dreamlike. You’ll remain aware enough to respond if needed, but time will seem to pass in an instant, and you’ll likely have little to no memory of the treatment afterwards.

Will I Still Feel Pain?

If your procedure requires it, a local anaesthetic will be used alongside conscious sedation to ensure you don’t feel any pain. While you’ll technically be awake, most patients relax to the point that time seems to pass in a blur.

When Will The Effects Wear Off?

The relaxation lasts as long as you need it. Once your dental work is complete, the effects will gradually fade, but how quickly depends on the type of sedation used.

If you opt for oral or IV sedation, you may feel a bit drowsy afterwards, so it’s essential to have a friend or family member escort you home. Inhalation sedation wears off much faster, allowing you to get back to your day shortly after treatment. No matter which option you choose, we’ll make sure you’re fully informed and comfortable before you leave.

How Much Does Conscious Sedation Dentistry Cost?

Sedation dentistry costs can vary depending on the type of sedation used and the length of your procedure. Generally, nitrous oxide sedation is the most affordable option, while oral sedation and intravenous sedation tend to cost more due to the medications and monitoring involved.

Find Out More

Book an initial consultation to explore your options for sedation dentistry with Vogue Dental. Get in touch online, or give our clinic a call on 020 3758 7800.