Dental Sedation

A significant number of people avoid visiting the dentist because of their anxiety about needing treatment.

At Christchurch, we firmly believe that everyone should have access to great dentistry and, as such, we have invested in training and equipment to ensure that even our most nervous clients can still receive excellent treatment whilst being completely at ease.

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Relax and Ease Dental Anxiety with Sedation

Dental sedation provides a comforting option for patients dealing with anxiety or fear during dental visits. Here’s why it could be a great fit:

  • Stay Calm and Relaxed: Sedation induces a state of deep relaxation, helping you stay stress-free throughout the procedure.
  • Quick Relief: The calming effects begin almost immediately, ensuring you’re comfortable from the start.
  • Customised Comfort: Sedation levels are tailored to your needs, so you get just the right amount of relaxation.
  • Let Go of Worries: Sedation helps you remain relaxed and may reduce your memory of the treatment, making the experience smoother.
  • Feel Secure: Even while sedated, you can communicate with your dentist if needed, staying both informed and at ease.
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Post-Sedation Recovery Tips: Rest and Recharge

Here’s what to expect after your sedation dentistry appointment:

  • Safe Ride Home: You’ll need an adult to drive you home after your procedure to ensure you get back safely.
  • Take It Easy: Rest for at least 2 hours once the sedation wears off.
  • No Driving: Avoid driving until the next day, as your reaction time might still be affected.
  • Safety Precautions: Stay away from machinery or power tools for 24 hours.
  • Delay Big Decisions: Hold off on making important decisions until fully recovered, usually by the next day.
  • Social Media Awareness: Avoid posting on social media for 24 hours, as your judgment may be slightly impacted.
  • Memory Gaps Are Normal: It’s common not to remember the procedure—don’t worry.
  • Minor Bruising: If you had IV sedation, you might have a small bruise at the injection site, which should fade in a few days.
  • Pain Relief: Take any prescribed pain medication as directed for comfort and continue other medications as advised.
  • Diet Guidelines: Follow our guidance on returning to your regular diet and avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours.

Following these steps will help you recover smoothly. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of sedation are used in dentistry?

Dentists use different types of sedation based on the procedure and each patient’s comfort needs. Options include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives (taken as pills), intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anaesthesia. The appropriate choice depends on the procedure’s complexity and how anxious the patient feels, ensuring a calm and pain-free experience.

Do you fall completely asleep with sedation dentistry?

It varies by the type of sedation. With general anaesthesia, patients are fully unconscious and asleep. However, other forms, like nitrous oxide or IV sedation, keep patients conscious but deeply relaxed. While you may feel drowsy and even drift off, you’re generally easy to awaken and can respond if needed.

What to expect with dental sedation?

In sedation dentistry, medication is administered to help you relax or sleep during the procedure. Levels of sedation range from minimal (like nitrous oxide) to moderate (such as oral sedatives) to deep (like IV sedation). Throughout the process, your dentist or anaesthesiologist will closely monitor your vital signs to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Does dental sedation prevent pain?

Yes, dental sedation is intended to reduce or completely prevent pain during procedures. Depending on the sedation level, you may feel little to no discomfort. Sedation is often paired with local anaesthesia for added comfort, ensuring you stay pain-free. If you experience any discomfort, inform the dentist or medical team—they can adjust the sedation or provide extra pain relief as needed.