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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😴 Can snoring affect your oral health?
In our latest Two Thirty video, Maggie answers a question many people don’t think to ask — can snoring impact your teeth and gums?
The short answer is yes, it can.
Snoring is often linked to breathing through your mouth at night, which can cause a dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in protecting your teeth, so when your mouth is dry, you may be more prone to tooth decay and bad breath.
If you snore and have noticed dryness, increased decay or concerns about your breath, it’s worth mentioning at your next appointment.
Our reception team at Evolve Dentistry in Portishead will be happy to arrange a consultation if you’d like advice.


⏰ Smile hack: When you brush matters
Did you know it’s not just how long you brush — but when you brush — that makes a difference? Maggie shares an important smile hack about timing your toothbrushing properly.
Brushing straight after eating — especially after acidic foods or drinks like fruit, juice or coffee — can actually do more harm than good. Your enamel is slightly softened, and brushing immediately can cause wear.
Maggie explains the best time to brush and why waiting can help protect your teeth long term.
It’s a small change that can make a big difference to your oral health.


How do braces actually work? 🤔
In the latest video from our Two Thirty series, Lisa explains exactly how braces move teeth — and why treatment takes time.
If you’ve ever wondered how gentle pressure can gradually straighten your smile, or what’s happening behind the scenes during orthodontic treatment, this short video breaks it down in a clear and easy-to-understand way.
Whether you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, understanding the process can make the journey feel much more reassuring.
Watch the full video now and, if you have questions about braces, our reception team will be happy to help you book a consultation at Evolve Dentistry in Portishead.


Have you got an old filling on a front tooth that’s starting to discolour?
Andrea recently visited us to have a stained filling replaced by Richard — and she’s absolutely thrilled with the result.
In her video, she talks about how the old filling had become noticeable over time and how much fresher and more natural her smile looks now.
Sometimes it’s the small changes that make the biggest difference to your confidence.
If you’re unhappy with an old filling, contact our reception team to book a consultation and explore your options.


Thinking about improving your smile but not sure what SmileFast actually involves?
Richard Ford has recorded a short video explaining how the SmileFast process works and the benefits of treatment.
From digital smile design through to the final result, SmileFast offers a minimally invasive way to enhance chipped, worn or uneven teeth — with predictable, natural-looking outcomes.
If you’ve been curious about composite bonding or want to understand your options, this is a great place to start.
Watch the full video on our YouTube channel and contact our reception team if you’d like to book a consultation.


Life gets busy — we get it.
If your healthy mouth review has slipped down the to-do list, this is your gentle reminder 💚
We’re here to help you stay healthy, comfortable and smiling with confidence.
📍 Portishead | 📅 Book your appointment today.


🕝 The Two Thirty series
Are sleep apnoea mouthguards effective? 😴
Yes — for many people with mild to moderate sleep apnoea, they can work really well.
In this video, Maggie explains how mouthguards help, and why more severe cases may need further assessment through a medical sleep service.
Clear answers to important questions — watch now 👆
#TheTwoThirty #DentalAdvice #SleepApnoea #BetterSleep #DentalFAQs



