Examinations & check-ups
Routine exams to monitor teeth, gums and soft tissues.
Learn moreHow we work
Sedation Dentistry
IV sedation for nervous or complex treatment, so care feels calmer and more manageable.
Honest suitability
Is dental sedation right for me?
IV sedation can make treatment manageable for patients who have avoided dental care because of genuine anxiety. But it still requires proper medical screening, appropriate escort arrangements and a treatment plan worth completing under sedation. We assess suitability honestly, and only recommend it when it adds something real to your care.
Suitable if
- Qualified team - Sedation is planned and delivered by trained clinicians.
- Tailored dosage - Medication is adjusted to your needs for comfort and safety.
- Continuous monitoring - Vital signs are checked throughout your appointment.
- Escort required - A responsible adult must take you home and stay with you.
May not be suitable if
- Certain medical conditions without medical clearance
- Patients unable to arrange a responsible escort
- Pregnancy unless specifically cleared
- When treatment can be comfortably completed without sedation
Patient benefits
Why patients choose IV sedation
Patients choose IV sedation because anxiety has made normal dental care feel impossible. Here is what makes the difference.
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Anxiety transformed into calm
Patients who have delayed care for months or years complete treatment they describe as manageable and even forgettable.
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Monitored throughout
Pulse, oxygen saturation and blood pressure are checked continuously. You are never left unobserved.
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Individually titrated dose
Medication is increased gradually and adjusted to you. There is no standard dose, and onset is gentle, never abrupt.
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Complex care feels manageable
Longer or more involved appointments can often be completed with less stress and fewer difficult memories.
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Before you commit Consultation & suitability
We review your medical history, medications and concerns. If IV sedation is appropriate, we explain fasting, escort requirements and fees in writing before you book.
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On the day: arrival
Preparation & cannula After checks, a small cannula is placed in your arm or hand. Sedation is given gradually until you are comfortable and ready for treatment.
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During treatment Dental care under sedation
Your dentist completes the agreed treatment while you remain relaxed. Monitoring continues for the full appointment.
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Recovery Discharge with your escort
You rest in clinic until ready to leave. Your escort receives verbal and written guidance for the rest of the day.
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Follow-up Review & next steps
We confirm healing at review and plan any further care needed, always at a pace that suits you.
Clinical assessment
What we review before planning sedation
IV sedation is clinically planned, not a simple add-on. These are the factors we assess to confirm it is appropriate, safe and likely to make a genuine difference for you.
- 01
Medical history and medications
We review your health, allergies and current medicines to confirm IV sedation is safe for you.
- 02
Anxiety level and treatment scope
Sedation is recommended when it will genuinely help you complete necessary care, not as a default for every visit.
- 03
Escort and recovery planning
A responsible adult must accompany you home. We confirm this is arranged before booking a sedation appointment.
- 04
Fasting and pre-appointment instructions
Clear guidance on eating, drinking and transport is given in advance so the day runs smoothly and safely.
Ask our principal dentist
Nervous about dental treatment?
Dr Deb Ray
Typically replies during opening hours
Hi there 👋, send a short message about your treatment question and we'll reply on WhatsApp as soon as we can.
Guide fees
Treatment fees
| Treatment | Fee |
|---|---|
| Sedation suitability consultation | Included in treatment plan |
| IV sedation (per session) | Quoted before booking |
| Sedation is added to your agreed dental treatment fees. We confirm the full cost, medical requirements and escort arrangements in writing before your appointment. | |
Balanced options
Alternatives to consider
Responsible dentistry means explaining every sensible option - not only the treatment you searched for.
Hygienist services
Professional cleaning and gum health support.
Learn moreRoot canal treatment
Save infected teeth with precision care.
Learn moreCommon questions
Frequently asked questions
Will I be asleep?
No. IV sedation keeps you conscious but deeply relaxed. You can usually respond to simple instructions. We will check your health, comfort and expectations carefully, then explain whether this is a good fit for you.
Will I remember the treatment?
Many patients remember very little and feel the appointment passed quickly, though this varies.
Is IV sedation safe?
For suitable patients it is considered safe when delivered by trained clinicians with continuous monitoring. We will check your health, comfort and expectations carefully, then explain whether this is a good fit for you.
Can I drive home?
No. You need a responsible adult escort and should not drive for 24 hours. We will check your health, comfort and expectations carefully, then explain whether this is a good fit for you.
Can I eat before sedation?
We give clear fasting instructions at your consultation, follow them exactly for your safety. We will check your health, comfort and expectations carefully, then explain whether this is a good fit for you.
What treatments can be done under sedation?
Hygiene, fillings, crowns, extractions and other planned care can often be combined with sedation when suitable.
How do I book a sedation consultation at Bridge Dental?
Use our online booking link or call reception. We will confirm appointment length, what to bring, and whether any preparatory steps are needed.
Are guide fees fixed before treatment?
We provide written estimates from our published fee guide. If your clinical needs change after assessment, we discuss any difference before proceeding.
How is IV sedation priced?
IV sedation is charged per session, separate from the dental treatment itself. The fee depends on how long your appointment needs to be and what is being done. We assess suitability at consultation, give you a written quote for sedation plus treatment before you book, and confirm fasting and escort requirements so you know exactly what to expect.