Sedation dentistry / sleep dentistry

Effective, pain and anxiety free dentistry

We understand that dental phobia is common, being frightened or scared of the dentist is nothing to be ashamed of, many people are apprehensive of the dental treatment, whilst others can't stand injections in the mouth, or the sound of the drill.

You may have had a bad experience in the past, or may be apprehensive because you haven't been for a while, and know that you need some work doing. Or you may want a smile makeover, and want to make your time in the chair as relaxed as possible.

Here at the Village Dental Centre we offer specialized conscious sedation clinics, which will help you overcome your fears and anxieties.

This technique of sedation in dentistry is extremely beneficial for you if you're very nervous, haven't had dental treatment done in a long time, or maybe you've got quite a bit of treatment needing done, and can't face it under local anaesthetic alone.

We even offer interest free credit and low cost finance payment options for treatment costing over £650.

For our IV sedation clinics we have a specialized anesthetist present, Dr. Rex Yetton who works mainly at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, as well as in the dental setting.

He has assisted us here with many sedation clinics over the years.

Click here to see a testimonial letter relating to our sedation clinics.

What will happen during the conscious sedation / IV sedation clinic?

Dr. Yetton will administer a drug called Midazolam through a very thin cannula, into a vein, either in your arm, or the back of your hand.

A clip-like device called a pulse oximeter will be placed on the end of your index your finger, this is used to monitor your oxygen intake during the session.

Local anaesthetic will also need to be used by the dental surgeon, you will already have had some sedative from Dr. Yetton so you won't find this a problem. (see pain free injection technique).

Dosing is individualized, and medication will be administered slowly to gauge your response to the sedative.

You will not be asleep during the clinic like with a general anaesthetic. The drug will bring you into a 'twilight zone' where pain and fear are not a reality anymore, you will become drowsy and unaware of the dentist or the treatment, but you will be able to cooperate with the surgeon at all times, as well as maintaining your own protective reflexes, like coughing or moving if you are in an uncomfortable position.

The dental sedation can be prolonged until the planned treatment is done.

After the treatment

We will ask that you have an escort to collect you from our office post treatment, as you will not be able to drive. You should also not drink any alcohol or sign any legal documents whilst under the influence of the medication.

The best idea is to go home and sleep off the effects of the medication.

Midzolam is also a strong amnesic, so you probably won't be able to remember much about your visit to the dentist.

The next day you'll feel so proud of yourself for getting done what you'd been putting off for years.