Sedation dentistry
Relaxed, comfortable dental care, even if you feel anxious
Dental anxiety is common, and it shouldn’t stop you from getting the care you need. We offer three levels of sedation so implant, surgical and extraction treatment can feel calm and easy.
At a glance
- 3 levels of sedation
- Oral sedation at all clinics
- IV sedation at select clinics
- Deep sedation with two sedation dentists
- Chosen with you at your consultation
What type of sedation is right for me?
Three levels, chosen around you
Your dentist recommends a level based on your anxiety, the length of your procedure and your medical history.
Level 1
Minimal (oral) sedation
A pill taken about an hour before your appointment helps you feel calm and relaxed while staying fully awake.
Available at all locations, based on your preference and your doctor’s advice.
Level 2
Moderate IV sedation
Given through an IV line. You stay awake and responsive but deeply relaxed, and often remember little afterwards. Well suited to longer procedures and wisdom teeth removal.
Available at select locations.
Level 3
Deep sedation
Given through an IV to bring a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state, for patients with severe dental anxiety. Two experienced sedation dentists are present throughout.
Currently offered at our Burnaby location.
Availability can change. Your clinic will confirm the options available to you.
Who it helps
Is sedation right for you?
Many patients put off treatment because of fear, a strong gag reflex or past experiences. Sedation helps you relax so we can complete more in fewer, more comfortable visits.
Consider sedation if you
- Feel anxious or panicky about dental visits
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Need a long or complex procedure
- Are having wisdom teeth or several teeth removed
- Find it hard to sit still for long periods
Preparing for your appointment
Simple steps for a smooth, safe visit
Your clinic will give you instructions specific to your sedation. These are the steps most patients follow.
Share your health history
Tell us about your medications, allergies and any medical conditions at your consultation.
Follow your instructions
Follow any eating, drinking and medication instructions your dentist gives you.
Arrange a ride
A responsible adult needs to take you home. Don’t drive for the rest of the day.
Rest afterwards
Take it easy for the rest of the day and follow your aftercare instructions.
Questions
Sedation questions
Straight answers to the questions patients ask us most. Your dentist will go through everything that applies to you at your free consultation.
Do you offer sedation?
Yes, at three levels: minimal oral sedation (a pill taken before your appointment), moderate IV sedation, and deep sedation. Oral sedation is available at all our clinics and IV sedation at select clinics. Deep sedation is currently offered at our Burnaby clinic, where two sedation dentists are present throughout.
Which type of sedation is right for me?
It depends on how anxious you feel, how long your procedure is and your medical history. Mild nerves are often well managed with oral sedation; longer treatments such as wisdom teeth removal may suit IV sedation; deep sedation is for severe dental anxiety. Your dentist will recommend the safest option for you.
Will I be awake during IV sedation?
With moderate IV sedation you stay awake and able to respond, but you feel deeply relaxed and may remember little of the procedure. With deep sedation you are in a sleep-like state throughout.
Can I drive home after sedation?
No. After any sedation you’ll need a responsible adult to take you home, and you shouldn’t drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day. Your clinic will give you specific instructions before your appointment.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Implant placement is done under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Most patients describe recovery as mild soreness for a few days, managed with over-the-counter pain relief. If you feel anxious, ask about our sedation options.
Keep exploring
Explore related care
Change your smile. Change your life.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation at a clinic near you. We are happy to answer any questions you have.