Nervous Patient Care

Dental anxiety is common, and you will never be judged for feeling worried. Some people are anxious about a particular procedure or injection; others have avoided care for years after a difficult experience. We begin by listening, understanding what would help and agreeing a plan that keeps you informed and in control.

Your first step does not have to involve treatment. An appointment can begin with conversation, questions and a gentle assessment. You can ask us to pause at any time, and we will explain each stage in plain language without pressure.

Ways we can support you

• Extra time to talk about previous experiences and specific worries
• A calm pace with an agreed stop signal and regular pauses
• Step-by-step explanations, or less detail if you prefer
• Staged appointments that build confidence gradually
• Local anaesthetic and comfort checks before treatment proceeds
• IV conscious sedation for suitable patients after a separate assessment

Behavioural support and sedation are complementary rather than automatic alternatives. The simplest safe approach likely to work for you is usually the best starting point. Your medical history, anxiety, proposed treatment and preferences are considered individually.

IV sedation when appropriate

IV sedation uses carefully controlled medication given through a vein. You remain conscious and able to respond, but usually feel deeply relaxed and may remember little afterwards. It is not a general anaesthetic. Suitability is confirmed only after a dedicated assessment.

Sedation care is led by Dr Brian Needham, Associate Dentist and former paramedic, with a trained dental nurse and continuous monitoring. A responsible adult must accompany you home and follow the restrictions given by the sedation team.

Indicative fees

• Sedation consultation, excluding X-rays: £103
• Sedation surgery time: £425 per hour, plus the cost of treatment

You will receive a clear estimate before deciding whether to proceed. Many nervous patients do not need sedation; routine examination or treatment fees apply when care is provided without it.

Frequently asked questions

Can I meet the dentist before agreeing to treatment?

Yes. The first appointment is a chance to talk, ask questions and understand the options. Non-urgent treatment is not started without your agreement.

Will you stop if I raise my hand?

Yes. We can agree a stop signal before examination or treatment and pause whenever you need us to.

Will IV sedation put me to sleep?

No. You remain conscious and able to respond. Most patients feel very relaxed and may remember little, but it is different from general anaesthesia.

I have not visited a dentist for years. Will I be judged?

No. Our focus is where you are now and how we can help. We can prioritise comfort and urgent concerns, then plan later stages at a manageable pace.

Clinical review: Dr Brian Needham, Associate Dentist, GDC 251822. Last reviewed 23 August 2026.