Intravenous (IV) Sedation in young people (12+)

Bridging the gap between local and general anaesthetic, conscious sedation provides excellent anxiety relief and reduced awareness which can allow your child to comfortably accept dental treatment. 

In some instances, we may recommend IV sedation for complex or time-consuming cases; for children with additional needs; or for any child who is very nervous about receiving a dental procedure. Often, children who have been unable to cooperate for treatment under inhalation sedation will be recommended this service on a case-by-case basis.

IV sedation in young people is permitted in dental practice for those aged 12+ years. This service is available at Victoria Dental Clinic, Manchester. Sedation is provided by a Consultant Anaesthetist, Dr Justin Roberts.

In some instances, an oral sedative (drink) will be given on the day of the appointment at the clinic to allow your child to relax before the sedation is started. This is known as a 'premed' and can be useful along with numbing cream on the back of their hand to help them accept a cannula without fear.

Our dedicated team will always have your child’s best interests at heart and we will speak to both parents and children about the options available, using child-friendly language.