The definition of conscious sedation as practiced in the UK is as follows:

A technique in which the use of a drug or drugs produces a state of depression of the central nervous system, enabling treatment to be carried out, but during which verbal contact with the patient is maintained throughout the period of sedation. This definition describes a state of sedation and does not prescribe how this is achieved. There are a number of drugs which can be used in the process of sedation, either on their own or in combinations. The most commonly used sedatives are members of the benzodiazepine family of drugs. They are often combined with drugs such as opioids, which are both analgesic and also enhance the sedative effect of the benzodiazepines.

All dental treatments can be carried out under sedation. Intravenous sedation is very predictable and can be tailored to suit the specific needs of individual patients. The drugs are titrated to effect and therefore sedation is suitable even for the most anxious patients, including those who in the past had treatment done under general anaesthesia. It is also very suitable for longer procedures such as complicated crown and bridge work or implants.

During treatment patients tend to feel much more relaxed and are generally very comfortable with having dental treatment performed. As mentioned above the patient retains the ability to communicate with the dentist and respond to requests the dentist may have.

During longer procedures patients may even drift into a natural sleep due to their relaxed state. If needed the dentist can easily rouse them by speaking to them.

Most patients remember very little, if anything, of their treatment. The rate of distribution and elimination of the drugs used, varies, depending on the specific drug used, the length of the procedure, medical history and constitution of the patient and the interaction with other drugs taken by the patient. After sedation patients tend to feel a bit drowsy and would usually choose to take a nap when they get home. Most patients will have fully recovered from the effect of the sedative drugs after six to eight hours. However, the literature mentions that it can take as long as 24 hours to clear your system and therefore patients are advised to avoid driving or using machinery etc. for 24 hours after their procedure. Besides drowsiness, other side effects are extremely rare.

Patients are required to be escorted home by an able bodied adult as their reaction time will be affected and there may also be a degree of memory loss during this period.

Before your sedation the anaesthetist will contact you to discuss your medical history and to answer any questions you may have regarding the sedation.