A
Communication, control and gradual steps
Stop signals, pacing, staged visits, preferred explanations and time to get used to the surgery can make care more manageable. Freeway helps you put these needs into words before an appointment.
Ways your dental team can help
Different people need different kinds of support. This page starts with communication and behavioural approaches, because sedation is not the only way a dental team can help.
Support can be combined
Sedation can help someone access treatment now.
Psychological and behavioural approaches can help change their relationship with dentistry over time. Some people benefit from one, some from both, and becoming sedation-free does not have to be the goal.
Common ways dental teams may help
B
Oral premedication
This means medicine prescribed before an appointment. It is not suitable for everyone, must be assessed and prescribed by the treating clinician, and may require an escort and driving restrictions. Never self-medicate with alcohol, borrowed tablets or unprescribed drugs.
C
Inhalation sedation
This usually means nitrous oxide and oxygen through a nasal mask. The patient remains conscious and responsive. It generally has a fast onset and recovery, but suitability is assessed individually.
D
IV conscious sedation
This uses a sedative through a cannula. The patient remains conscious and able to respond, although memory may be reduced. An escort and post-sedation restrictions are normally required, and individual assessment is essential.
E
General anaesthesia
The patient is fully unconscious. This is not conscious sedation. It is used only for selected patients in appropriately regulated hospital or equivalent services after referral and assessment.
Local anaesthetic still matters
Local anaesthetic is still normally required for painful dental treatment, even when sedation is used. Sedation changes anxiety and awareness; it does not replace numbing for dental pain.
No simple ladder
This page cannot recommend a technique for you. Availability and terminology can vary, and the treating team decides what is clinically suitable after assessment.
Urgent dental problems come first
Freeway and this information page do not replace urgent dental care, dental assessment or clinical judgement. If you have pain, swelling, injury, bleeding or feel unwell, seek appropriate help now.
Guidance source
NHS England clinical guidance
This page is general information and should be interpreted by your own dental team in the context of your health, treatment needs and local services.
NHS England Clinical guide for dental anxiety management