Treatment under
sedation.
We are aware that you may be
anxious prior to your treatment. Both our practices offer
sedation to nervous patients. Inhalation sedation, or "happy air",
can be used to relax anxious children. Adults can also benefit
from "happy air" or intravenous sedation which has a more profound
sedative effect.
Inhalation Sedation is
sometimes known as "happy air" or "laughing gas". A mixture of nitrous oxide and
oxygen quickly leads to a pleasant, relaxed feeling. You remain
awake all the time, although you may be a little drowsy, and any
treatment given causes you no discomfort. You breathe in the
mixture through a nosepiece, which is very comfortable. You
can’t overdose on the gas, as the mixture quickly leaves the
body if you breathe in one or two breaths of ordinary air. There
are no after-effects either, and you can drive a car after about
15 minutes.
Intravenous Sedation
is an injection
usually given in the back of your hand and gives a much more
pronounced level of relaxation compared to inhalation sedation.
For all sedation, we recommend you bring an
escort to the practice as you may feel tired after the
treatment. Following intravenous sedation you will not be able
to drive for the rest of the day, operate any machinery or sign
any legal documents.
If you want to discuss
sedation further then please mention it to your dentist.
