For many people, visiting the dentist can feel daunting. Whether it’s a previous bad experience, fear of pain, or simply feeling out of control, dental anxiety is far more common than you might think.
At The Briars Dental Centre, we believe that your comfort matters just as much as your clinical outcome. That’s why we offer a range of carefully considered options for sedation at the dentist, designed to help you feel relaxed, supported, and confident throughout your treatment.
Below, we explain the sedation options available at The Briars, so you can choose the level of support that feels right for you.
Dental anxiety can prevent people from getting the care they need – sometimes for years. Left untreated, small issues can become complex problems, affecting both oral health and confidence.
Sedation at the dentist isn’t about “knocking you out”. It’s about:
Helping you feel calm and in control
Reducing fear and physical tension
Making treatment feel manageable and comfortable
Creating positive dental experiences moving forward
Our team takes time to listen, explain, and tailor every approach to you — because no two patients (or worries) are the same.
(Gentle, effective, and often all you need)
For many patients, local anaesthetic — combined with personal comfort measures — provides more than enough reassurance.
How local anaesthetic works
Local anaesthetic is administered directly to the area we’re working on. Before the injection, we apply a topical numbing gel to the gum, so the area is already desensitised.
When delivered correctly, local anaesthetic should be a pain-free experience.
At The Briars, we focus on:
Slow, controlled administration, which significantly reduces discomfort
Advanced training and experience to ensure precision
Clear communication, so nothing comes as a surprise
It’s often the speed and force of an injection that causes discomfort — not the anaesthetic itself. Our clinicians are highly skilled in gentle delivery techniques.
Personal comfort options
Alongside local anaesthetic, you’re welcome to bring anything that helps you feel at ease, including:
Headphones or calming music
A trusted friend or family member
A fidget toy or comfort item
Breathing or grounding techniques
For many patients, this combination removes the need for further sedation at the dentist.
(Extra calm, without needles)
If anxiety feels harder to manage, oral sedation may be a helpful next step.
What is oral sedation?
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative tablet before your appointment. This medication helps you feel deeply relaxed, calm, and less aware of time or surroundings.
Important to note:
The medication is prescribed in advance and not stored on site
The cost is that of a private prescription
You will feel drowsy and relaxed, but still responsive
Key considerations
Because oral sedation affects alertness:
You cannot drive after your appointment
You must bring a responsible chaperone
You may remember very little of the appointment
For many anxious patients, oral sedation at the dentist bridges the gap between reassurance and deeper relaxation.
(The highest level of relaxation we offer)
For patients with severe dental anxiety, complex treatment needs, or a strong gag reflex, IV sedation can be life-changing.
How IV sedation works
IV sedation is administered through a small cannula into a vein, allowing sedation to take effect quickly and be carefully controlled throughout your treatment.
At The Briars:
IV sedation is provided by an external specialist provider
We currently work with Sedation Solutions, a highly experienced team
Your safety and comfort are monitored at all times
Most patients feel:
Extremely relaxed
Detached from the procedure
As though the appointment passed very quickly
Costs and practicalities
IV sedation starts from £400 for one hour
The cost increases depending on appointment length
You cannot drive for 24 hours
A chaperone is essential
IV sedation at the dentist is ideal for longer treatments or patients who want the calmest possible experience.
Yes — when carried out correctly and for suitable patients, sedation dentistry is very safe.
We always:
Carry out thorough medical assessments
Discuss your health history in detail
Explain risks, benefits, and alternatives clearly
Work with experienced, accredited sedation providers
Our approach aligns with best practice guidance from respected professional bodies such as the Society for the Advancement of Anaesthesia in Dentistry (SAAD).
There is no “right” or “wrong” choice — only what feels right for you.
Some patients start with local anaesthetic and comforts, while others feel reassured knowing IV sedation is available. During your consultation, we’ll talk through:
Your anxiety levels
The type and length of treatment
Previous dental experiences
Medical considerations
Together, we’ll decide on the most appropriate form of sedation at the dentist for your needs.
At The Briars Dental Centre, we’re proud to offer dentistry that feels supportive, respectful, and human. Sedation at the dentist is just one of the ways we help patients move forward with confidence – often after years of avoidance.
If you’re nervous, anxious, or simply want reassurance, you’re not alone – and you’re very welcome here.
Your smile means everything to us.
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