Glendowie Dental Centre

Sedation

Oral Sedation is the use of a drug which relaxes the central nervous system enabling treatment to be carried out by the dentist.

Many people postpone going to the dentist because of fear of dental procedures. Conscious oral sedation can provide anxiety relief and often overcome the fear. Oral Sedation is the use of a drug which relaxes the central nervous system enabling treatment to be carried out by the dentist while still allowing the patient to communicate. You normally remember very little but still co-operate with your dentist and wake up relaxed and calm. Sedation is typically used in minor surgical procedures such as wisdom teeth removal, root canal treatment, multiple teeth extraction, surgical extraction or multiple fillings procedures.

Advantages of Oral Sedation

  • Reduced dental anxiety and phobia when there are traumatic or prolonged dental procedures required.
  • Patients with gag reflex are relaxed.
  • Patients with medical conditions that can potentially be aggravated by the stress are calmed.
  • Patients with Special Needs (mild intellectual or physical disability) can be sedated and relaxed.
  • Patients with disorders involving spasticity can be treated.

What do I need to do before Sedation?

  • You must not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the appointment.
  • You should not smoke for at least 24 hours before the appointment.
  • Contact lenses should not be worn due to the possible drying effect of the drugs used.
  • It is important that your dentist knows of all medications you are taking as well as any changes to your medical history including all known allergies.
  • You must be accompanied by a responsible adult and driven home by car or taxi. Public transport is not an option after sedation.
  • You will be required to have a responsible person with you for the next 12 hours.
  • Instructions will be given to you and your care giver after the sedation and dental treatment is completed. You will be advised how to care for your mouth and the dos and don’ts post sedation.