Sedation

Treatment overview‍

Sedation can make dental treatments much more comfortable, especially if you experience anxiety or are undergoing a longer procedure. At Dental Holistix, we offer both IV and inhalation (nitrous oxide) sedation options to help you feel relaxed, safe and at ease during your visit. Our goal is to make sure every step is explained, so you know what to expect and can enjoy a calm, stress-free experience.‍

Why sedation is used‍

Sedation is beneficial for many patients and is used to:

Reduce anxiety: Dental anxiety is common, and sedation allows you to feel calm and relaxed.

Increase comfort: Longer procedures can sometimes feel uncomfortable. Sedation ensures you remain comfortable and at ease throughout.

Support special needs: Sedation can help patients with gag reflex issues, movement concerns, or other special needs to feel more comfortable during treatment.

Provide better experience during complex procedures: For treatments that require extended time in the chair, sedation helps make the experience quicker and less intense.‍

Sedation options available

IV sedation
IV (intravenous) sedation involves administering a sedative directly into your bloodstream through a small cannula in your arm or hand. The sedative, Midazolam, acts quickly to create a state of relaxation and drowsiness, helping you feel at ease while remaining conscious. Local anesthesia is also used to ensure you feel no discomfort during the procedure. We closely monitor your vital signs, including pulse, blood pressure, oxygen levels, respiratory rate and CO₂ levels, throughout.

Inhalation sedation (nitrous oxide)
Inhalation sedation, or "laughing gas," uses a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen administered through a nasal mask. This option helps you feel calm and light during the procedure. The effects wear off quickly after treatment, so you can typically return to normal activities soon afterward.‍

Key benefits‍

Sedation can transform your dental experience, with benefits such as:

• Reduced anxiety and discomfort: Sedation helps you relax, making your visit as comfortable as possible.
• Enhanced treatment experience: Time often feels shortened, and complex treatments seem quicker.
• Flexibility for a variety of needs: Whether for minor anxiety or to aid with a complex procedure, sedation can be tailored to your needs.

Who is a good candidate?‍

Sedation is ideal for patients who:

• Experience dental anxiety or fear of treatment.
• Need extensive or multiple dental procedures.
• Have sensitive gag reflexes, special needs, or challenges with sitting still.
• Prefer to feel relaxed and less aware during their visit.‍

‍Treatment timeline

IV sedation

1. Consultation and preparation: We’ll review your medical history and discuss any medications you take, including recreational substances. You will complete a pre-procedural medical history form and be provided with specific instructions, such as avoiding food, drink, and certain substances before treatment.
2. Sedation procedure: IV sedation is administered through a small cannula. You’ll feel relaxed and drowsy, but you will remain conscious. The dentist will monitor your sedation level and vital signs throughout.
3. Post-sedation recovery: After the procedure, you’ll rest in the chair as the sedative begins to wear off. Once we confirm you’re ready, a responsible adult will accompany you home.

Inhalation sedation

1. Consultation and preparation: A review of your medical history and current medications ensures you are safe for nitrous oxide. You’ll be given preparation instructions, including avoiding heavy meals and alcohol before your appointment.
2. Sedation procedure: A nasal mask delivers nitrous oxide, creating a relaxed, light sensation. You’ll remain aware but comfortable.
3. Post-sedation recovery: Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so after the procedure, you can resume regular activities once you feel alert.

Cost and payment options

IV sedation: Starting at $800, administered by a specialised anaesthetist who will be present to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

Inhalation sedation: Starting at $120.

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FAQs

How will I feel during IV sedation?
With IV sedation, you’ll feel relaxed and calm, though still aware of your surroundings. Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure, which can make it ideal if you prefer to avoid discomfort or anxiety.

How soon will I feel normal after nitrous oxide?
The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, usually within minutes once the mask is removed. You’ll feel alert and can typically resume normal activities shortly after.

Can I drive home after sedation?
After IV sedation, a responsible adult will need to accompany you home, as the effects of the sedative can linger for hours. For nitrous oxide, you may be able to drive afterward if you feel fully alert, but it’s best to arrange transport if you’re uncertain.

Will sedation make me sick afterward?
Unlike general anaesthesia, IV sedation rarely causes nausea. If you’re using nitrous oxide, we’ll guide you to avoid heavy foods and certain drinks beforehand to minimise any nausea risk.

Are there any restrictions after sedation?
Yes, after IV sedation, you should rest for the day, avoid driving or operating machinery, and skip alcohol, sleeping pills, or important decisions for 24 hours.

SEDATION: PRE- AND POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS‍

Please read and follow these pre- and post-treatment instructions for sedation (IV and inhaled) carefully to ensure a safe and smooth recovery following your dental treatment.

IV sedation: Pre-treatment

Medications and medical history

• Please inform us of any medications you are taking, including recreational drugs or alcohol. This information is confidential and very important for your safety. Not disclosing certain drug use or medical conditions may affect the effectiveness or predictability of sedation, especially when midazolam is used. Some medications may need to be paused or adjusted prior to sedation - this will be discussed before your treatment date. Medications that have been confirmed as safe can be taken with a small sip of water if needed.
  
  
• Please also inform our dentist of any changes in your health or medications before your treatment, especially if you are pregnant, have a respiratory condition or have any medication allergies. All patients will need to complete a pre-procedural medical history form before sedation, even if a recent questionnaire was filled out. This form will be provided once sedation treatment is accepted to ensure we have the most up-to-date information for your safety.

Food and drink

• Do not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours prior to your appointment. Avoid any fatty or heavy foods. Water can be consumed up to 2 hours prior for any medication needed.
• Do not consume alcoholic drinks for 24 hours before your sedation appointment.

Recreational drugs: Please refrain from using any recreational drugs for at least 7 days before sedation or surgery as these substances can interfere with sedation and compromise your safety.

Medications: Take your regular medications as advised by your doctor, with a small sip of water if needed. Some medications may need to be paused or adjusted prior to sedation - this will be discussed before your treatment date. 

Clothing and personal care: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves or sleeves that can be easily rolled up to allow easy access for IV placement. Do not wear any nail varnish or false nails as we need to place a pulse monitor that shines a light through your fingernail during the treatment. Avoid wearing contact lenses, jewellery or makeup, particularly around the eyes, to help with monitoring during the procedure.

Transportation and support person: Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you to the clinic and drive you home afterward. This person may stay during the sedation, leave once you are comfortable, and then return for your discharge. We will contact them when your treatment is complete. Please note, we cannot discharge you without your support person’s presence. They must physically enter the clinic to accompany you upon discharge and drive you home. For your safety, you will not be discharged to leave alone via Taxi, Uber or any other mode of transport. 

IV Sedation: Post-treatment

Supervision: A responsible adult must stay with you for 24 hours following your treatment to monitor your recovery and assist as needed.

Activity restrictions: Rest as much as possible and avoid any strenuous activity. Refrain from driving, operating machinery or engaging in activities requiring concentration or coordination, such as cycling, for at least 24 hours due to the lingering effects of IV sedation.

Additional precautions: Avoid alcohol, sleeping tablets and making important decisions (e.g., online banking) during this 24-hour period to ensure your safety and full recovery.

Caring for IV site: It is normal to experience slight tenderness or bruising at the IV site. This should subside within a few days. If needed, apply a cold pack in short intervals (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) to reduce any discomfort.

Food & Drink: Start with small sips of water and gradually move to soft foods as tolerated. Avoid hot foods or beverages, alcohol and caffeine for the first 24 hours to prevent irritation or dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your body flush the sedative medication out of your system.

Nausea and diet: Unlike general anaesthesia, IV sedation typically does not cause nausea due to the use of different medications. However, for comfort, start with clear fluids and progress to soft, bland foods when ready, avoiding heavy or greasy meals for the first 24 hours. Expect to have a restful, deep sleep following your sedation as your body recovers.

Pain relief: If pain relief is needed, take any prescribed or over-the-counter medications as directed by our dentist. Avoid taking pain medication on an empty stomach if feeling nauseated; a light snack may help settle the stomach.

If things don’t seem right: Contact our clinic or seek medical attention if you experience prolonged drowsiness, difficulty breathing or any other unusual symptoms.