IV Sedation Overview
In 2018, Niall completed his postgraduate diploma in Conscious Sedation in Dentistry at Trinity College Dublin. This allows us to offer intravenous (IV) sedation at Boyne Dental. IV sedation is the most effective type of sedation that can be provided in dental practice. The technique uses an anti-anxiety drug called midazolam that is slowly added into the bloodstream by a small tube in a vein.
This allows fast, predictable and safe sedation allowing you to feel deeply relaxed and really not that bothered about what is going on! For this reason it is an extremely valuable tool in facilitating treatment for those with high levels of dental anxiety.
M.idazolam produces partial or full memory loss (amnesia) for a period of time and most people who use IV sedation will have no recollection of the procedure, lending itself to an even more positive experience. Although many people feel as though they have been asleep, a vital element of the ‘conscious sedation’ technique is that we can communicate with you throughout at all times to ensure that you are comfortable and safe.
An initial appointment is used as an assessment when the different approaches and treatment options will be discussed with you. Once a treatment plan is agreed, consent is discussed along with relevant advice. As IV sedation is a powerful sedative, you will feel drowsy afterwards so it is not possible (or safe) to drive home or go back to work for example. It is essential that you bring along a responsible adult to accompany you home and remain with you for the rest of the day as a precaution.
Niall and his team are trained to give sedation. During the sedation, they will watch you closely and are also required to use appropriate monitoring equipment. You will then rest in a recovery area, continuing to be monitored until you have made a full recovery from the sedation.