Sedation dentistry for nervous patients in Richmond
Dental fear is far more common than you might think, and we promise we've heard it all before. Our gentle approach is designed to help you feel calm, in control, and properly cared for.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses safe, carefully measured medication to help you feel deeply relaxed during your appointment. You stay awake and able to respond, but the worry, the time and the noise all seem to drift away. For many of our patients, it's the difference between avoiding the dentist for years and finally getting the care they need.
Sedation dentistry led by a dentist featured in national campaigns
Our sedation dentistry is led by Dr Frances Carling-Thom, who focuses on caring for nervous patients and is currently featured in a national Sensodyne campaign. With over 15 years of experience helping anxious patients, Frances is genuinely beloved by our more nervous visitors for her warmth, patience and gentle manner.
How does IV sedation work?
IV sedation involves a small injection that gently delivers sedative medication into your bloodstream. Within minutes, you'll feel deeply calm and detached from what's happening, although you'll still be able to talk and respond. Most patients remember very little of the appointment afterwards
Treatments we can carry out under sedation in Richmond
IV sedation lets us complete a wide range of dental work in fewer, calmer visits. Patients often choose sedation for:
- Dental implants and bone grafting
- Wisdom teeth removal and extractions
- Root canal treatment
- Multiple fillings or longer cosmetic work
- Routine check-ups and hygiene for very anxious patients
Your sedation journey at Richmond Hill Dental
We've built our nervous patient pathway around the fact that the first step is always the hardest. Here's how we'll guide you through it.
Step 1 - A friendly first chat
Before anything clinical happens, you'll have a calm conversation with Frances about what worries you, what you've experienced before, and what you're hoping to achieve. There's no examination on this first visit unless you'd like one.
Step 2 - Plan your treatment together
Once Frances understands your concerns, she'll talk through your options at your pace - including whether IV sedation is right for you - and explain exactly what each step would involve.
Step 3 - Your sedation appointment
On the day, you'll be welcomed into a calm surgery, settled comfortably, and gently sedated. You'll feel deeply relaxed within minutes, and Frances will carry out your treatment with care and kindness throughout.
Step 4 - Aftercare and follow-up
You'll need someone to take you home and keep an eye on you for the rest of the day. Frances will check in with you afterwards to make sure you're feeling well, and we'll plan any follow-up at your pace.
A separate site dedicated to nervous patients
Frances also runs a dedicated practice for nervous patients in addition to her work at Richmond Hill Dental. You can learn more about her sedation services and read patient stories at dentistryfornervouspatients.co.uk.
How much does sedation dentistry cost in Richmond?
Our IV sedation fee starts from £500, charged on top of the cost of the dental treatment itself. We'll always provide a full written estimate after your initial chat with Frances, so you know exactly where you stand before booking.
You're far from alone
If you've put off seeing a dentist for years, please don't feel embarrassed. We see patients every week who haven't been in a chair for a decade or longer. We will never make you feel judged, rushed, or awkward about where you've got to. We're just glad you've reached out.
Frequently asked questions
Will I be unconscious during IV sedation?
No. IV sedation is conscious sedation, which means you'll stay awake and able to respond, but you'll feel deeply relaxed. Most patients remember very little afterwards, but it isn't a general anaesthetic.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. IV sedation is one of the safest and most well-established ways to manage dental anxiety, and Frances is fully qualified and experienced in administering it. We'll always check your medical history thoroughly beforehand.
How long will the sedation last?
The active sedation lasts for the duration of your appointment, but you'll feel a little drowsy and detached for several hours afterwards. You'll need someone to take you home and stay with you for the rest of the day.
Can I drive after sedation?
No. You must not drive, operate machinery, sign legal documents, or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after IV sedation. Please arrange for someone to collect you from the practice.
What if I'm too nervous even to come in for the consultation?
That's completely understandable. Please call us on 0208 940 1860 and our team will gently talk things through with you over the phone first. Many of our most nervous patients started exactly that way.
Do you offer sedation for children?
Sedation in our Richmond practice is for adult patients. For nervous children, our children's dentistry team uses a wide range of gentle behavioural techniques to help build confidence over time.