Sedations & Referrals

Inhalation sedation is available both for children and for adults and it can help you relax while on the chair – it is perfectly safe for all ages and is reversible so you will not need an escort to take you home afterwards. The sedation is lighter and routinely used for children

Intravenous sedation is available on all treatments we offer at our clinic. It involves a small needle in the back of the hand or arm to administer a drug into the blood supply. It relaxes you completely, allowing you to undergo treatments without any nervousness at all! Although you will be fully conscious, there is a slight amnesic effect so you won’t recall the unpleasant details of your treatment.

Sedation is the best supplementary if you are anxious about your treatment.
For more information on sedation, please contact our friendly team or read the extra information below:

More information on Inhalation sedation:

Introduction: Nitrous oxide is a colourless, slightly sweet gas that is used during dental treatment for relaxation and anxiety relief. When inhaled, it can induce feelings of euphoria and sedation. It also can produce sensations of drowsiness, warmth and tingling in the hands, feet and/or about the mouth. In the dental setting, it will not induce unconsciousness. You will be able to swallow, talk and cough as needed.

Contradictions: Please let us know if you have any of the following medical conditions, because we may not be able to safely use nitrous oxide: congestive heart failure, chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, chronic asthma, bronchiectasis, pregnancy, hepatitis B or C, tuberculosis, macrocytic anemia, immune diseases, respiratory diseases, middle ear infections, or a history of substance abuse. Also, if you suffer from claustrophobia, you may choose not to use nitrous oxide.

Preoperative guidelines: Nitrous oxide is administered through a nasal mask. You must be able to breathe through the nose (blocked nasal passages, colds, etc., defeat the idea of using nitrous oxide for relaxation). Avoid eating at least four hours prior to the dental appointment. Avoid caffeinated products before coming in for treatment. Nitrous oxide can cause “stomach butterflies” (nausea), which may result in vomiting. On the day of your appointment do not take any antidepressants (unless your dentist is aware of them) or other sedatives unless prescribed by your dentist.

Instructions during nitrous oxide use: Your mask must remain firmly in place during the entire period. Do not breathe through your mouth. Breathe through the nose only. Notify the doctor if you are experiencing difficulty in breathing through your nose. No talking is allowed while nitrous oxide is being used. Talking blows nitrous oxide into the room, lessening the desired effect for you, and exposing the dental staff to the nitrous effects.

Postoperative guidelines: Recovery from nitrous oxide sedation is rapid. The gas will be flushed from your system with oxygen. If you feel dizzy after the sedation, remain seated, and the sensation should pass in a few minutes. Do not leave the office until your head feels clear, and you are able to function (i.e., walk and drive) safely.

After the Nitrous Oxide Sedation: You may feel nauseated, dizzy, drowsy or claustrophobic during and after sedation.

More information on IV sedation:

Introduction: Intravenous sedation helps to make lengthy or complex dental treatment much more comfortable and easy for you to manage. It can help remove the anxiety, stress, discomfort, as well as awareness of the procedure. You will enjoy a relaxing sleep whilst you maintain your reflexes and are able to breathe for yourself, as well respond to us if required. It also can produce sensations of drowsiness, warmth and tingling in the injection area and elsewhere. In the dental setting, it will not induce unconsciousness. You will be able to swallow, talk and cough as needed.

Contradictions: Please let us know if you have any of the following medical conditions, because we may not be able to safely use nitrous oxide: congestive heart failure, chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, chronic asthma, bronchiectasis, pregnancy, hepatitis B or C, tuberculosis, macrocytic anemia, immune diseases, respiratory diseases, middle ear infections, or a history of substance abuse. Also, if you suffer from claustrophobia, you may choose not to use nitrous oxide.

Preoperative guidelines: IV sedation requires that we place a small cannula (Access for the medication to your vein) following which we will also give you a local anaesthetic once you are sedated. We will continuously titrate your required sedation dose so you will feel completely relaxed during the procedure. Throughout the procedure you will feel relatively aware of the procedure until the procedure comes to an end. At that time, no more titration dose will be administered and you will be slowly allowed to recover from the effects of the sedation medicine.

Following your procedure, you will be given appropriate recovery time in which you will be closely monitored with specialist monitoring equipment to ensure your safe recovery.

Our practice is specially equipped for IV sedation treatments; as well as our staff which have additional training. However as it administers an intravenous drug, certain precautions are necessary after the procedure to ensure a comfortable recovery:

1. You will need supervision for up to 8 hours following the completion of your sedation treatment and it is recommended not to sign legal documents or make important decisions during that time.
2. You may remain drowsy and lack time and space judgment after the procedure is completed. This could last up to 8 hours.
3. You may experience nausea and vomiting following your sedation and our team will provide you advise to minimize this.
4. Discolouration of the skin or bruising in areas of access to veins or attempted access may persist for some time.
5. You may experience post-operative pain depending on the treatment carried out, areas of numbness, swelling, bleeding, and general post-operative discomfort.

Before the procedure:

1. You are advised not to eat at least 6 hours before undergoing sedation, or drink a minimum of 3 hours prior to sedation.
2. You are advised to wear loose clothing & remove all jewellery for your comfort.
3. We ask that you remove nail varnish and tie hair loosely.
4. We will not be able to start the intra-venous sedation without an escort who can stay with you for 24hrs after your sedation is completed.
5. We advise that you take your medications as prescribed by your GP and do not stop any medication without prior recommendation.
6. Please do let your dental sedationist know if you have a change in medical circumstances or medication.
7. We ask that you do not drink alcohol or take recreational drugs before attending to be sedated.

Aftercare

1. DO NOT drive, operate machinery or sign legal documents 24 hours after sedation.
2. DO NOT drink alcohol 24 hours after sedation
3. ALWAYS have a responsible adult to take care of you for 24hrs after sedation
4. DO NOT eat until the numbness has worn off, however you can drink water as needed
5. DO NOT travel home via public transport; preferably take a taxi or private car home.

Fee estimate

RA sedation 30 minutes / 60 minutes £95 / £180
IV Sedation 30 minutes / 60 minutes £180 / £220