Conscious Sedation induces an altered state of consciousness and is a very light form of anaesthesia, that minimises pain and discomfort, through the use of sedatives and pain relievers. Sedation drugs can be administered by Intravenous (IV) Sedation, Oral Sedation or Inhalation Sedation.

IV sedation is commonly utilised as it relies on the administration of sedative drugs directly into the bloodstream producing a faster onset of sedation medications.

This is a technique that is used very effectively with children and very anxious patients. It utilises several medications to help calm and relax the patient enabling dental treatment to take place more comfortably. Although patients are sedated, they do retain control of their vital functions – coughing, breathing and swallowing and are able to respond to verbal commands. Conscious sedation is carried out by an anaesthetist or sedationist and the patient remembers very little of the dental procedures after treatment.