Intravenous (IV) Sedation for Endodontic Treatment

Comfortable, Safe and Stress-Free Care

At North Terrace Endodontics, we understand that many patients experience anxiety when faced with root canal treatment. To help make your experience as comfortable as possible, we are pleased to offer intravenous (IV) conscious sedation for eligible patients.

IV sedation allows you to remain relaxed and comfortable throughout your procedure while continuing to breathe independently and respond to verbal instructions. Many patients remember very little of their treatment afterwards, making the experience significantly less stressful.

Who May Benefit from IV Sedation?

IV sedation may be suitable for patients who:

  • Experience moderate to severe dental anxiety or phobia

  • Have previously found dental treatment difficult

  • Require lengthy or complex endodontic procedures

  • Have a strong gag reflex

  • Prefer a more relaxed treatment experience

Your suitability for IV sedation will be determined following a review of your medical history and an assessment by our clinical team.

What to Expect

On the day of your appointment:

  • An experienced Anaesthetist will administer medication through a small cannula placed in your arm.

  • You will gradually become deeply relaxed while remaining conscious throughout treatment.

  • Your heart rate, oxygen levels and blood pressure will be continuously monitored.

  • Once treatment is complete, you will recover in our practice before being discharged into the care of a responsible adult.

Although you will remain awake during treatment, most patients have little recollection of the procedure afterwards.

Safety is Our Priority

Patient safety is of the utmost importance.

Our IV sedation service is delivered by experienced clinicians using modern monitoring equipment in accordance with Australian sedation guidelines. Before treatment, we will discuss your medical history, current medications and answer any questions you may have.

Before Your Appointment

You will receive detailed instructions before your appointment, which may include:

  • Fasting for a specified period before treatment

  • Continuing or modifying certain medications as instructed

  • Arranging for a responsible adult to accompany you home

  • Not driving, operating machinery or making important decisions for the remainder of the day

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be asleep?

No. IV sedation is not a general anaesthetic. You remain conscious but deeply relaxed and comfortable.

Will I feel pain?

Local anaesthetic is still used to completely numb the tooth. IV sedation helps reduce anxiety and promotes relaxation throughout the procedure.

Can I drive afterwards?

No. Because the sedative medication affects your coordination and judgement, you must arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you after your appointment.

Is IV sedation safe?

For appropriately selected patients, IV sedation has an excellent safety record when administered by trained practitioners with appropriate monitoring.

Referring Dentists

IV sedation provides an excellent option for patients who may otherwise defer or avoid essential endodontic treatment because of anxiety. If you believe your patient may benefit from treatment under IV sedation, please indicate this on your referral or contact our practice to discuss the case.

Book a Consultation

If you are anxious about root canal treatment or would like to learn more about IV sedation, our team would be pleased to discuss whether it is appropriate for you.

Contact North Terrace Endodontics today at (08) 8223 1093 to arrange a consultation.