IV Sedation Dentistry in Edgware
Dental anxiety shouldn’t cost you your teeth. IV sedation lets you drift through treatment relaxed — most patients remember almost nothing.
If fear has kept you away from the dentist for years, you are far from alone — and you won’t be judged at Toothi. IV (intravenous) sedation is the strongest form of sedation available outside hospital: a sedative given through a small cannula keeps you deeply relaxed, conscious and able to respond, while feeling detached from the treatment. Most patients remember little or nothing afterwards — years of needed dentistry can often be completed in one or two calm visits.
Who is IV sedation for?
- ✓ Severe dental anxiety or phobia — especially if you’ve avoided the dentist for years
- ✓ A strong gag reflex that makes treatment difficult
- ✓ Long or complex procedures — multiple extractions, implant surgery — done in one sitting
- ✓ Difficulty getting numb with local anaesthetic alone
Suitability is confirmed with a health assessment first — we’ll check your medical history and talk everything through at your own pace.
How IV sedation works
Assessment
A gentle consultation and medical check — we plan your treatment and answer every worry, with no pressure.
On The Day
A small cannula in your hand or arm delivers the sedative. Within minutes you feel calm and drowsy; we monitor you throughout.
Treatment, Peacefully
You remain responsive but deeply relaxed — time passes quickly and most patients recall very little.
Recovery
You rest with us until steady, then a responsible adult takes you home. No driving, work or alcohol for 24 hours.
IV sedation fees
Sedation is priced with your treatment plan, since it depends on the length and complexity of your appointment — you’ll receive one clear written quote covering everything before any treatment. A £55 examination starts the conversation, and 0% finance is available on treatment over £250. See the full fee guide.
Sedation FAQs
Will I be asleep during IV sedation?
Not fully — IV sedation is “conscious sedation”: you stay responsive but deeply relaxed and detached. Most patients remember almost nothing, which for anxious patients is the point.
Is IV sedation safe?
Yes — it’s given by trained clinicians with continuous monitoring of your oxygen levels and pulse throughout, following strict UK guidelines. Your medical history is fully assessed first.
Can I drive home afterwards?
No — a responsible adult must accompany you home, and you shouldn’t drive, work, sign documents or drink alcohol for 24 hours while the sedative fully wears off.
I’m embarrassed about my teeth — will you judge me?
Never. Almost every sedation patient says the same thing — and every one of them was treated with kindness. Whatever state your teeth are in, we’ve seen it before and we’re just glad you came.
How is this different from happy gas or a tablet?
IV sedation is deeper and more controllable than inhalation sedation or oral sedatives — the dose is adjusted in real time to keep you exactly comfortable, which makes it the choice for significant anxiety or longer procedures.
Prefer to write rather than call? WhatsApp us — tell us you’re nervous and we’ll take it from there
Page reviewed by Dr Ali El-Kabengi (GDC 270807) · Updated 18 August 2026
