Sedation is medication given intravenously usually with a small needle in the arm or back of the hand. Sedation suppresses consciousness resulting in sleepiness. It also significantly reduces a patient’s anxiety regarding the procedure. Patients may be somewhat aware of their surroundings during the procedure. However, it is common for a patient not to remember the procedure when finished. Local anaesthetic is also used to numb the teeth and gums after the sedation has taken effect.
