For some people, the hardest part of dental treatment is walking through the door. For others, it’s knowing a longer, more complex procedure is coming up. Sedation can make both easier.

At Simply Dental, we offer two options: IV sedation and oral sedation. Here’s how each one works, and what to expect from your first conversation with us through to the rest of your day after treatment.

You stay awake and in control

First things first: dental sedation doesn’t put you to sleep. With both IV and oral options, you remain conscious and able to communicate with your dentist. What changes is how you feel: calm and relaxed, rather than on edge.

That matters if dental anxiety has kept you away. You’re still part of the appointment. You can still hear what’s happening and respond. You just don’t have to white-knuckle your way through it.

IV sedation

IV (intravenous) sedation suits patients with dental anxiety, and those having more complex dental procedures. It lets you feel deeply relaxed while staying conscious and able to follow instructions.

Before anything else, your dentist will go through your medical history and the treatment you need to work out whether IV sedation is a good fit. They’ll explain the risks, the benefits and the alternatives, and answer whatever you want to ask.

If you go ahead, you’ll get clear instructions for the lead-up to your appointment, including fasting requirements. You’ll also need a responsible adult to bring you in and take you home afterwards.

On the day, the medication goes in through a small cannula in your arm or hand. You’ll feel calm and relaxed throughout, and many patients remember very little of the treatment once it’s over.

Afterwards, we’ll keep an eye on you until you’re safe to head home. Most people feel drowsy for the rest of the day, so plan on resting. You’ll leave with post-operative instructions, and we’ll arrange a follow-up if you need one.

Oral sedation

Oral sedation means taking prescribed medication before your appointment to ease anxiety and help you relax. It’s a simple, effective option for people with mild to moderate dental anxiety.

Your dentist will first review your medical history to decide whether oral sedation is appropriate for you, then explain exactly how and when to take the medication.

You take it at the time you’ve been given, ahead of your visit, and you’ll need someone to come with you to the practice and take you home.

During treatment you’ll feel calm and relaxed, but you’ll stay awake and able to talk with your dentist. How sedated you feel varies from person to person.

The effects can last several hours, so treat the rest of the day as a rest day: no driving, no work and no big decisions. We’ll give you aftercare instructions before you leave.

Which option suits you?

That’s not a decision you need to work out alone. Your medical history, the treatment you need and how anxious you feel all come into it. Your dentist will talk it through with you and explain the options.

Whichever you choose, a little planning makes the day easier:

  • Arrange for someone to come with you and take you home
  • Follow your pre-appointment instructions closely
  • Clear the rest of your day so you can rest
  • Keep your aftercare instructions handy

Talk to us about sedation in Wellington

If nerves have been holding you back, or you have a bigger procedure ahead, give us a call. We’ll talk through whether sedation is right for you and answer any questions before you commit to anything.

Simply Dental is on Level 3, AMI Plaza, 342 Lambton Quay, in the heart of Wellington’s CBD.

Call us on 04 473 9283 or 0800 123 343, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

Existing and new patients can book a check-up online here.