IV Sedation
Making Dental Care Less Stressful for Nervous Patients
Many people fear the dentist and, consequently, avoid going. As a result, both dental and general health can suffer. Conscious or sleep sedation enables our patients to undergo even the most complex dental treatments (which often require multiple appointments) in just one appointment.
Conscious sedation is a safe and proven way to reduce discomfort while having dental work done. Using carefully-monitored IV sedation, we can help you relax and remain at ease throughout your dental treatment. Under IV sedation, patients often remain awake, making the procedure safer than general anaesthesia. This type of sedation helps you reach a very relaxed (sleepy) state and access the dental care you need.

How IV Sedation Works in Dentistry
IV sedation can help reduce anxiety and help you relax during dental procedures. The time will seem to pass quickly, and many patients do not remember anything afterward.
While under sedation, our experienced team closely monitors your vital signs. We also measure your blood pressure before and during the procedure.
With moderate sedation, patients remain conscious and awake but highly relaxed.
Our Sedation Dentistry Experts in Wokingham Berkshire
At smile2o, we have taken the utmost care in selecting highly qualified and experienced medical practitioners, who will ensure your safety and comfort throughout treatment.
Benefits of Conscious Sedation
IV sedation works well for patients who may have dental anxiety or a fear of needles and other dental equipment. It helps you remain calm during the procedure, freeing up the dental team to work safely and efficiently without worrying about causing you agitation or stress.
Compared to oral sedation, IV sedation is more reliable as the medication is administered directly into the bloodstream. Additionally, conscious sedation is more suitable for patients with gagging reflex problems, as it can make them more relaxed as dental work occurs.
Privilege Plan
Making your regular appointments and dental treatment more affordable
Appointments
Contact the team to arrange an appointment
Refer a Patient
Refer a patient for treatment with our specialist prosthodontist
Possible Side Effects for Conscious IV Sedation Dentistry
For most patients, IV dental sedation dentistry is a suitable choice. However, there is a portion of the population with specific combinations of medical conditions for whom sedation dentistry is not advised. Should you fall into the latter group, we will let you know.
Every person reacts differently to drugs and medication, and IV sedation is no different.
- Feeling dizzy
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Minor bruising, swelling, or bleeding at the site of the IV injection
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness after the procedure
Sedation Dentistry at smile2o
Preparation
- Consult with us regarding any medications you take
- Arrange for a companion to accompany you to the appointment and drive you home
- Wear comfortable and loose clothing with short sleeves that can roll up
- Remove any jewellery, contact lenses, and dentures
- Clean off any excess makeup or lipstick
During the Procedure
Our conscious sedation practitioner will administer and monitor your IV sedation. Once the medication has taken full effect, our dental team will complete your dental treatment, including local anaesthesia, if required.
After the Procedure
When you awake, you will feel refreshed and have no memory of the procedure, and you should not experience any pain. Depending on the type of sedation you received, you may require time in a recovery room for observation before you are cleared to go home.
It will take several hours for the sedation to wear off, so you must have someone accompany you to the practice, drive you home, and stay with you until the effects of sedation subside.
