There is no need to be anxious or nervous about having any kind of treatment at Evolve Dentistry. Carol Somerville Roberts has been practicing sedation for the past 25 years; she is a member of the Society of the Advancement of Anaesthesia in Dentistry. Her aim is to make every dental experience a pleasant one.
“Magic air” (known more commonly as gas and air) produces a safe, fast-acting, pleasant, floating sensation that starts before your treatment and lasts while you are being treated. This is particularly recommended for anxious children.
A pain-free injection which makes you feel like you’re asleep, without actually being asleep. You are unconcerned of what is going on around you, but can still follow the dentist’s instructions. Most people have no recollection of the treatment afterwards, making it perfect for anxious or nervous patients.
If you opt to have sedation, you will need to attend a pre-sedation appointment to ensure that you have an escort available to take you home, that you understand the proposed treatment, have your blood pressure checked and sign consent for your treatment. This means that on the day of your treatment, assuming that you are still happy to proceed as planned, we can just get going with your treatment.
On the day of treatment, you must bring an escort with you who will stay with you after your appointment. Because of the drowsiness, you must not drive or operate any machinery until the day after your intravenous sedation. Your escort must be able to drive you home, you cannot take public transport. Most people feel very tired after the treatment so it is advisable to go home and rest. You cannot go back to work and must avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after your appointment.
Top 10 FAQs
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s particularly useful for those with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or for longer treatments. You’ll still be conscious and able to respond, but you’ll feel calm and less aware of the procedure.
Sedation is ideal for patients who:
Your dentist will assess your suitability during a consultation.
Some dental practices in Portishead offer:
Yes, sedation dentistry is very safe when administered by a qualified professional. Dentists offering sedation must undergo specific training, and your vital signs will be closely monitored throughout the procedure.
No, sedation does not put you to sleep. You’ll remain awake and able to communicate, but you’ll feel drowsy, deeply relaxed, and may not remember much of the procedure. This is often referred to as “conscious sedation”.
The effects can last for a few hours after your appointment, depending on the type of sedation used. For this reason, you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a short while afterwards. You should avoid driving or operating machinery for 24 hours.
Side effects are typically mild and may include drowsiness, dry mouth, or temporary memory gaps. Nausea and headaches are rare. Your dentist will explain any risks beforehand and ensure you’re medically fit for sedation.
Costs vary depending on the type of sedation and treatment length. Oral sedation may be included in the cost of treatment, while IV sedation typically ranges from £200 to £600 per session. Some practices offer payment plans to help spread the cost.
Yes, sedation can be suitable for children who are extremely anxious or require complex treatment. Inhalation sedation (gas and air) is commonly used in paediatric dentistry. The dentist will carry out a full assessment to ensure it’s appropriate and safe.
Several dental practices in Portishead offer sedation services, particularly those specialising in nervous patients or complex treatments. Always choose a GDC-registered dentist with appropriate sedation training and a good reputation for patient care.
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📣 An important update from Dr Carol Somerville Roberts
In this video, Carol shares some personal news about reducing her clinical days from early 2026, following advice from her consultant. While this means she’ll be seeing fewer patients day-to-day, Carol will still be very much involved in Evolve Dentistry, continuing to provide treatments such as amalgam removal and cosmetic dentistry, and ensuring we deliver the highest standards of care.
We’re also thrilled to share that Carol will be taking on the role of President of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry this November 👏 — a fantastic recognition of her expertise and dedication to dentistry.
For many patients, your care will now be with Dr Richard Ford, Carol’s long-standing colleague and friend. Richard shares the same commitment to excellence and patient care that Evolve is known for, and we know you’ll be in excellent hands.
Thank you, as always, for your trust and support. 💙
#EvolveDentistry #PatientCare #DentalTeam #CosmeticDentistry
The vibrant colors of autumn have arrived, and with them comes the deliciously aromatic pumpkin-spiced latte! It’s the perfect way to savor the season and indulge in the cozy flavors that make fall feel magical at Evolve! 🎃🍁 ☕
We’re so pleased to introduce Maisie, the newest member of the Evolve Dentistry team! 🦷💙
Maisie has joined us as a trainee dental nurse, and in this video she tells you a little about herself. We’re thrilled to have her on board and know our patients will give her a warm welcome too. ✨
#EvolveDentistry #DentalCare #MeetTheTeam #WelcomeMaisie
📸 Your smile deserves the best care!
Say goodbye to over-the-counter whitening kits and hello to professional teeth whitening in Portishead at Evolve Dentistry. Safe, effective, and designed just for you.
✨ Discover how we can help brighten your smile – read our new blog today!
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#SmileBright #TeethWhitening #Portishead #EvolveDentistry
🦷 143 years of smiles 🦷
Between them, the dentists at Evolve Dentistry have an incredible 143 years of combined experience. That’s generations of expertise, knowledge and care — all dedicated to keeping Portishead smiling with confidence.
When you choose Evolve, you’re choosing:
✨ Decades of trusted clinical experience
✨ A team who puts your comfort first
✨ The very best in patient care
Your smile is in#confidentsmiles
📍 Book your appointment today with our experienced team.
#EvolveDentistry #Portishead #Dentist #ConfidentSmiles #Northsomerset #freeconsultation #multiawardwinning #compositebonding #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #orthodontist #newpatients #smilemakeovers #naturalteeth #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #whitening #portisheadmarina #dentist #dentures #adultbraces #braces #EvolveDentistry #DentalCare #ExperienceMatters #Portishead #PortisheadCommunity #CompositeBonding #ConfidentSmile #MeetTheTeam #PatientCare #Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #newpatients #acceptingnewpatients #naturalteeth #portishead #nailsea #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #adultbraces #braces
Portishead is bursting with creativity, and we’re so excited for the Portishead Arts Festival this September! 🌟🎨
The Arts Trail is one of our favourite parts — a chance to explore, discover, and celebrate the amazing talent in our community.
We’ll be following the trail… will you? 🖌️👀
👉 Find out more: @portisheadartsfestival or visit portisheadartsfestival.org
#PortisheadArtsFestival #Portishead #CommunitySpirit #EvolveDentistry #ArtsTrail