A worried-looking woman holding a phone, with her hand near her mouth

IV sedation

For nervous patients

IV sedation in Cheltenham for nervous patients

Feeling anxious about visiting the dentist? At Regency House Dental Practice in Cheltenham, Dr Josh Hadley will be offering intravenous (IV) sedation alongside dental treatments to help nervous patients feel more relaxed. Contact our friendly team to discuss your concerns and arrange an assessment.

Support for dental anxiety

Dental anxiety can make it difficult to book an appointment, especially after an upsetting experience or a long break from dental care. We’ll listen without judgement and talk about what would help you feel more comfortable.

For nervous patients, IV sedation may be one way to make dental treatment more manageable. We’ll assess your needs and medical history, explain suitable options and give you time to ask questions before you decide.

What is IV sedation?

IV sedation uses medication given through a small cannula in a vein in your hand or arm to help reduce anxiety. You stay conscious and can communicate with the dental team.

Dr Josh Hadley will discuss whether IV sedation is appropriate alongside your planned dental treatment. We’ll explain what it involves, the alternatives and the recovery arrangements before you give consent.

Meet Dr Josh Hadley

Josh is a dentist and implantologist who joined Regency House Dental Practice in December 2017. His approachable nature and good humour have helped him build strong relationships with his patients.

He qualified with a BChD from the University of Leeds in 2015 and completed an MSc in Implantology at the University of Bristol in 2025, graduating with Distinction. GDC number: 258813.

Josh will be offering IV sedation at our Cheltenham practice alongside dental treatments for nervous patients. He’ll take time to discuss your concerns and help you understand the proposed care.

What to expect from dental treatment with IV sedation

Your assessment
We’ll talk about your concerns, review your health and discuss your dental treatment, suitability for sedation, alternatives, risks and costs.

Preparing for your visit
You’ll receive instructions about eating, drinking, medicines and your escort. Contact us if anything is unclear and follow the advice given for your appointment.

Treatment and recovery
We’ll monitor you during treatment and allow recovery time before you leave with your escort. You’ll receive written aftercare advice and details of who to contact with concerns.

IV sedation FAQs

?Will I be asleep?

You remain conscious and able to respond during IV sedation. It can help you feel calmer and drowsy, and you may remember less of your appointment afterwards.

?Is IV sedation suitable for me?

An assessment is needed first. Please share your medical history, medicines, allergies and any previous experiences with sedation so Josh can discuss your options.

?Does sedation replace local anaesthetic?

Sedation helps with anxiety. Local anaesthetic is still used where needed to numb the treatment area. We’ll explain both before you decide.

?Can I drive home afterwards?

You’ll need a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you for 24 hours. During this time, avoid driving, alcohol, machinery, important decisions and caring for dependants. Follow the written instructions we give you.

?How much will it cost?

We’ll discuss the proposed dental treatment and sedation fees and provide an individual estimate before you agree to proceed.