Feel calm, relaxed, and at ease during your treatment.
If dental anxiety, fear, or the thought of a longer procedure has been holding you back, IV sedation can help you feel deeply relaxed while we complete your treatment safely and comfortably.
Designed for patients who want a smoother, calmer experience and more confidence about getting treatment done.
Understand IV sedation
Watch a quick overview so you know exactly what to expect.
Most patients feel deeply relaxed throughout and remember very little afterwards.
Why IV sedation can make treatment feel more manageable.
For many patients, dental fear is not just a small concern — it can stop them from getting the care they need. IV sedation helps reduce anxiety, improve comfort, and create a much calmer experience during treatment.
Alleviates anxiety and fear
IV sedation helps patients feel relaxed and at ease, which can be especially helpful if you have a history of dental anxiety or phobia.
Improves comfort during treatment
The deeply relaxed state created by IV sedation makes longer or more involved appointments feel easier to get through.
Allows more to be done in fewer visits
Because patients remain calm and comfortable, multiple procedures can often be completed more efficiently in one appointment.
IV sedation may be worth considering if any of these sound familiar.
Not everyone needs sedation, but for the right patient it can make a very big difference to how treatment feels.
You feel anxious or fearful
You feel nervous before appointments, avoid treatment, or find dental visits overwhelming.
You need longer or more complex treatment
IV sedation can be helpful when multiple procedures or a longer appointment are planned.
You have had difficult dental experiences before
If past treatment has made you feel more fearful, sedation can help create a much calmer reset.
You have a strong gag reflex
Patients who struggle with gagging during treatment may find sedation makes procedures more manageable.
You want to feel less aware
One of the most valued benefits is that many patients have little memory of the procedure afterwards.
You want a smoother overall experience
For the right patient, sedation can make treatment feel more achievable and less emotionally draining.
Why many patients choose IV sedation.
Rapid onset, allowing the sedative to take effect quickly.
Careful control and adjustment of the sedation level throughout the procedure.
Amnesic effect, meaning many patients remember little to none of the treatment.
Supports a still, relaxed patient position, which can help treatment proceed more smoothly and efficiently.
A planned, monitored approach designed around your health.
We review your medical history and current health carefully before confirming suitability.
Monitoring equipment is used throughout to track your vital signs.
Your sedation level is managed continuously during treatment for comfort and safety.
You are monitored during recovery until you are ready to go home with your support person.
A straightforward process with support at every stage.
Understanding the process can make IV sedation feel less intimidating. We guide you through it clearly before the day of treatment.
Consultation and assessment
We assess your health history, discuss your concerns, and confirm whether IV sedation is appropriate for you.
Preparation guidance
You’ll receive clear instructions before your appointment, including fasting requirements and what to organise for afterwards.
Sedation and treatment
An IV line is placed, the sedative is administered, and the level is adjusted as needed while treatment is completed.
Recovery and aftercare
You’ll be monitored as you wake up, then given detailed aftercare instructions before going home with your driver.
Comfort-focused care for patients who need more support.
IV sedation can be used across a range of dental procedures, from extractions to more involved treatment, when comfort and anxiety management matter most.
Experienced, personalised care with patient comfort at the centre.
Highly trained clinicians experienced in managing patients receiving IV sedation.
Modern facilities and monitoring systems to support safety and comfort.
Customised planning based on your needs, health, and the treatment involved.
A supportive, patient-centred approach from first consultation through recovery.
Transparent guidance before you commit.
The exact cost depends on the complexity and duration of treatment, but IV sedation at Waiata Shores Dental starts from $600 per session and is in addition to the dental procedure itself.
Pricing
From $600 per session
The final fee depends on the duration and complexity of the treatment involved.
Procedure duration
Typically 1–3 hours
Treatment time varies depending on what is being completed during the appointment.
Recovery period
Usually 1–2 hours
You’ll be monitored after treatment until you are ready to go home safely.
Feel more comfortable about getting the care you need.
If anxiety or discomfort has been holding you back, book a consultation and we’ll help you understand whether IV sedation is the right option for you.