Sedation dentist in Sheffield
A calm, safe way to get the treatment you need – with options for both adults and children.
Calm environment
Sedation options
Gentle care
What is dental sedation?
Sedation in dentistry means helping you feel deeply relaxed during your treatment. It’s not general anaesthetic – you stay conscious – but it can significantly reduce anxiety, muscle tension, and awareness of what’s happening.
At Lateral Dental, we offer two forms of conscious sedation:
Inhalation sedation (gas and air) is suitable for adults and children.
Intravenous (IV) sedation is offered to adults after a full clinical assessment.
Both are carried out by trained clinicians, under strict safety standards, and we offer sedation for both adults and children.
Your treatment plan will always be tailored to your needs, medical history, and level of anxiety.
Is sedation right for you or your child?
We assess every patient individually before offering sedation. For children, inhalation sedation is often the first step, and we can accept referrals from other practices for this service. For adults, either option may be suitable depending on your needs, anxiety levels, and medical background.
If sedation isn’t right for you, we’ll still take a calm, supportive approach to your care – with plenty of time, clear explanations and a pace that suits you.
What treatments can I have with sedation?
Almost any dental treatment can be done under sedation – from a simple filling to a longer procedure like a root canal or multiple restorations. At Lateral Dental, we offer sedation to support your comfort – not just for specific types of treatment.
Whether you’re coming in for a regular appointment or something more complex, if you’re feeling nervous, we’ll talk through sedation options with you.
Benefits of dental sedation
Sedation is a trusted way to reduce anxiety, manage long treatments, and get the care you need – comfortably and safely.
You’ll feel calm, relaxed and disconnected from the sights, sounds and sensations of treatment.
It allows nervous patients to access important care without panic or fear.
Treatment often feels quicker and easier, even for longer appointments.
It makes complex or multiple treatments more manageable in fewer visits.
Feel calm and in control
Ideal for anxious patients
Safe, fully monitored sedation
Feel calm and in control
EIdeal for anxious patients
Inhalation Sedation (Gas & Air)
Also known as “laughing gas,” this is a gentle form of sedation where you breathe in a controlled mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a soft nose mask.
How it works:
- Reduces anxiety and makes you feel calm and light
- You may feel slightly tingly, floaty or giggly
- Effects wear off quickly once the gas is stopped
Why patients (and parents) like it:
- Great for mild to moderate anxiety
- Very fast recovery – most people feel back to normal within minutes
- Safe for most people, including children
- You can usually go home on your own after treatment
Intravenous Sedation (IV Sedation)
IV sedation uses a medication called Midazolam, delivered through a small cannula placed in your hand or arm. It’s ideal for more intense anxiety or longer procedures.
How it works:
- Slows your central nervous system
- Makes you feel sleepy, calm and less aware of what’s happening
- You may not remember much of the procedure afterwards
Key points to note:
- Fast-acting and deeply relaxing
- Ideal for nervous adults or complex treatments
- Longer recovery time – you’ll need a chaperone to take you home
- Sedation doesn’t replace local anaesthetic – you’ll still be numbed for comfort
- Some health conditions may affect whether this option is suitable
- It may become less effective with repeated use, which we’ll monitor
Need help?
FAQs
Questions we often hear from nervous patients.
Will I be asleep during sedation?
No – this isn’t general anaesthetic. You’ll be awake but deeply relaxed, and may not remember the treatment clearly afterwards.
Is dental sedation safe?
Yes – it’s medically approved and safely delivered by trained professionals. You’ll be fully monitored throughout the appointment.
How long does it take to wear off?
The effects can last a few hours. You’ll need someone to take you home and stay with you until you’re fully alert again.
Can I ask for sedation even if I’m not nervous?
Yes – sedation is also useful for longer treatments or patients with strong gag reflexes or jaw discomfort.
I’m really anxious – what if I can’t even get to the chair?
That’s okay. Tell us in advance – we’ll take things at your pace and can talk you through your options before anything happens.
