Dental Sedation is Now Available at Callan Dental

Dental sedation is offered at Callan Dental for patients who suffer high amounts of fear, anxiousness or nervousness about dental treatment. Dr Jennifer Huston offers both IV and inhalation sedation at Callan Dental. Sedation is offered for all treatments apart from the initial examination.

Types of Sedation at Callan Dental

Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Happy Air): Nitrous Oxide Sedation is a gas sedative that helps patients relax during their dental procedures. It is administered through a mask and wears off quickly after the procedure.

IV Sedation: Intravenous Sedation (IV Sedation) is an option for patients who need a higher level of sedation. It is administered directly into the bloodstream, ensuring a comfortable and anxiety-free experience.

Below, Dr Jennifer Huston has answered some of your frequently asked questions about sedation at Callan Dental.

Am I suitable for dental sedation?

Dental sedation is an option for those who suffer with high amounts of fear, nervousness or anxiety about dental treatments. This can be used for treatments such as simple extractions, surgical extractions, restorations and cleanings. While there is no specific treatment that requires dental sedation, you may want to avail of the option if you do experience anxiety when undergoing dental treatment. It all depends on your wants and needs as a patient. While there is no upper age limit for dental sedation, a patient must be at least 18 years of age for IV Sedation, and Nitrous Oxide Sedation is available from approximately the age of 6 years old, based on suitability assessment at the consultation. Each patients suitability will be carefully assessed, taking into consideration their medical history.

How safe is dental sedation?

Dental sedation is very safe. Before booking a treatment with sedation, patients must attend a consultation appointment. Your dentist will discuss your medical history with you before administering it to make sure that you do not have any conditions which could make it an issue.

What do I need to do before sedation?

Before your dental sedation, you should not:

●      Consume alcohol 24 hours before the appointment

Before your dental sedation, you can:

●      Take any prescription medicines as normal; the dentist will have already checked that these are compatible with the sedative used.

●      Have a light, non fatty meal (for example, toast).

Is there anything I need to prepare coming into the appointment?

●      You should wear flat heeled shoes coming to the appointment as you will be unsteady on your feet for a couple of hours following the sedation visit. You should also not wear any nail varnish or false nails as we need to place a pulse monitor on your finger that shines a light through your fingernail during the treatment.

Do I need to have somebody with me?

Yes. You must bring a responsible adult with you to the sedation visit. They must remain in the practice during your treatment and must escort you home. We will not be able to carry out the sedation treatment unless this person is present. This is a legal requirement of the laws governing Dental Treatment under IV Sedation.

What do I need to do after sedation?

After your treatment, it is important that you:

●      Have a responsible adult with you for 24 hours

●      Do not drive a vehicle for 24 hours.

●      Do not operate machinery

●      Do not look after small children

●      Do not carry out any dangerous tasks requiring concentration for 24 hours

●      Do not consume alcohol or sleeping tablets for 24 hours

●      We will keep you in our waiting room or in the dental chair as the sedative starts to wear off. Generally this only takes between 15-30 minutes.

Will I feel sick afterwards?

No. Unlike a general anaesthetic, there is usually no feeling of nausea afterwards. This is due to the fact that very different drugs are used. However, you will have a very good night’s sleep following your sedation.

About Dr Jennifer Huston

Dental anxiety is a very real and debilitating condition that prevents many people from seeking the dental care they need. For over 10 years, Dr Jennifer Huston has been treating nervous dental patients under sedation. She has empowered countless individuals to receive the essential dental care they would otherwise have avoided.

Jennifer’s journey to becoming a dentist with a special interest in treating nervous patients began when she earned her honours dental degree from Trinity College Dublin.  Soon afterwards she realised her passion and skill for helping those with dental anxiety. She decided to pursue additional training in sedation dentistry and pain management in the prestigious Eastman Dental Hospital in London.

With over 10 years of experience, Jennifer has honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the unique needs of nervous patients.  One of the hallmarks of Jennifer’s practice is her compassion and empathy. She takes the time to listen to her patients, understanding their fears and concerns. Her gentle demeanour and kind chairside manner put patients at ease from the moment they walk through the door. This personalised approach helps build trust, which is crucial when working with individuals who suffer from dental anxiety.

Sedation dentistry allows patients to undergo dental procedures in a relaxed and anxiety-free state. Jennifer carefully tailors the level of sedation to each patient’s needs, ensuring they feel comfortable and safe throughout their treatment.

Jennifer continues to update her knowledge and finetune her skills by regularly attending courses and seminars in dental sedation. She is a member of SAAD (Sedation, Analgesia and Anxiety Management for Dentistry), the International Society of Dental Anxiety Management and the Dental Sedation Teachers Group.

If you’ve been putting off essential dental treatment due to phobia, fear or anxiety please do not hesitate to contact Dr Jennifer Huston in Callan Dental. She will be delighted to look after you and help you achieve a healthier, happier smile.

If you have any other questions about dental sedation at Callan Dental or would like to book an appointment, please contact us on (056) 775 5577 or callan@dentalcareireland.ie.