Comfortable Dental Care — Even If You’re Anxious
From light nitrous oxide through to IV sedation given by Dr. Stephen Ing, our dental anaesthesiologist, there is a level of sedation to suit almost every patient — so the treatment you have been putting off can finally happen.
Dental Anxiety Shouldn’t Stop You from a Healthy Smile
Dental anxiety is common, and it is one of the main reasons people postpone care they know they need. We take that seriously. It is not something to apologise for, and it is not something you have to overcome on your own before you come in.
Whether it is a cleaning you have been dreading or a long surgical appointment, the level of sedation is matched to you — your medical history, the procedure itself, and how you actually feel about being in the chair.
The Right Level of Comfort for You
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
MildBreathed through a small mask, nitrous oxide brings on a light, floating calm within a few minutes. You stay fully awake and can talk to us throughout. It clears quickly afterwards, and most patients are able to drive themselves home once we are satisfied they have fully recovered.
Oral Sedation
ModerateA prescription sedative taken before your appointment brings a deeper calm. You will be drowsy but awake, and able to respond to us. Most patients remember little of the appointment afterwards, though this varies from person to person.
IV Sedation
DeepGiven through a vein by Dr. Stephen Ing, IV sedation brings a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state. You keep breathing on your own, and your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels are monitored continuously. Most patients remember little or nothing of the appointment.
General Anaesthesia
GeneralFor complex oral surgery, or for patients for whom any awareness is simply not tolerable, general anaesthesia is available under the care of Dr. Stephen Ing.
Sedation May Be Right for You If You…
Monitored, Medically Supervised Sedation
Every sedation appointment here is given and monitored by clinicians trained to deliver it. Dr. Stephen Ing, our dental anaesthesiologist, oversees IV and general anaesthesia cases, with vital signs watched from the first moment to the last.
Before any sedation appointment we review your full medical history to confirm the option chosen is appropriate for you. Our sedation practice follows the standards set by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario.
Sedation Dentistry FAQ
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. All sedation options we offer are clinically proven and administered by trained professionals following RCDSO guidelines. A thorough medical review is completed before every sedation appointment.
Will I be unconscious during IV sedation?
No. IV sedation produces a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state, but you continue breathing on your own and can respond to simple instructions. Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
Only after nitrous oxide, which wears off within minutes. For oral sedation, IV sedation, or general anaesthesia, you must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
It varies by plan. Sedation is more often covered where it accompanies surgery or where there is a documented medical need, and less often for anxiety alone. Our coordinators will check your policy and tell you what it is likely to pay before your appointment.
Is sedation available for children?
Yes. Nitrous oxide is commonly used for children and wears off within minutes. Deeper sedation is assessed case by case by Dr. Stephen Ing, our dental anaesthesiologist, taking account of age, medical history and the treatment planned.
How do I prepare for a sedation appointment?
For oral or IV sedation you will be given fasting instructions beforehand, and you will need an adult to drive you home and stay with you afterwards. Bring a current list of your medications, wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that roll up, and tell us about any change in your health since your last visit.
Dental Care Without the Fear
Tell us what worries you most, and we will talk through which option fits. Nothing is booked until you are ready.