IV sedation; a guide from Himesh Patel dentist
Have some questions about dental sedation?
At Himesh Patel dentist Coptfold, we are proud to be able to offer our patients sedation dentistry and can ensure that when you undertake it with us, you will be in good hands.
In this brief guide, Himesh Patel dentist Coptfold introduces you to a more in-depth guide to sedation dentistry, specifically intravenous sedation and all that it entails, for your information.
Why do we offer sedation dentistry?
Himesh Patel dentist Coptfold may suggest intravenous sedation if you are a nervous patient, have a sensitive gag reflex, are undertaking a longer procedure (such as the fitting of dental implants) or are worried about discomfort.
What does the process involve?
It is quite simple; we place a needle or cannula into your arm which administers a sedative drug into your system via a drip bag; the drug is usually a benzodiazepine called midazolam. When our team has finished their work, we simply remove the needle.
During the sedation
Once you have been sedated, you will not be asleep. You will feel relaxed and calm.
You may feel floaty or as though you are slightly drunk; this is all normal and is known as twilight sedation.
However, this state of consciousness will mean that our team does not need to inject you with pain relief while we work, thus speeding up the process. You will be able to respond to our instructions and, once the cannula is removed, you will have something akin to amnesia of the entire experience.
Post-sedation
For 24 hours post-sedation, you will likely feel sleepy, drowsy and floppy. This is a normal side-effect of the medication and it should resolve within the timeframe.
During this period, we must insist that if you need to go anywhere, such as to the local shop, that you have an age-appropriate family member or friend with you. You should also avoid making any large decisions about your job or family finances during this period, as you may still be under the influence of the drug.
Also, we must insist that you do not operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after sedation. Do not drive; if you need help of any kind with a medical issue, please seek transportation from a friend or family member.
Cautions
There is the odd chance that you may develop a bruise where the injection (or cannula) was put into your arm. Provided that this bruise and site is not aggravated, it should fade on its own in a few days.
Some patients also feel groggy or drowsy for longer than 24 hours post-sedation, which can be worrying. If you have concerns that you are feeling off or unwell for longer than anticipated by our team, please seek medical help with the supervision of a friend or family member. Do not drive under any circumstances if you continue to feel sedated.
There is also a chance that while you are sedated, you may suffer from low oxygen levels in your blood due to poor breathing; this will be monitored by our team and, if we feel there is cause for concern, we will cease administering the medication.