Dental anxiety can make it difficult to get the care you need. At Stouffville SMILES Dentistry, we offer relaxation, sedation and general anesthesia options for children and adults. We’ll discuss your concerns, review your health and recommend an approach suited to your treatment.
Who may benefit from sedation?
Sedation may be helpful for patients who experience dental anxiety, have a strong gag reflex, find longer appointments difficult or need extensive dental treatment. Some children and patients with additional support needs may also benefit.
The right option depends on your medical history, dental needs and individual assessment. Sedation may be considered for treatments such as wisdom tooth removal, dental implants or root canal treatment.
Understanding your options
Nitrous oxide
Often called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is breathed through a small mask over the nose. It can help reduce anxiety while you remain awake and able to communicate. Its effects generally wear off quickly after it is stopped.
Oral sedation
Oral sedation uses prescribed medication to help you relax. You may feel drowsy and remember less of the appointment. The effects can continue after treatment, so you’ll receive specific instructions about transportation, supervision and recovery.
IV sedation
IV sedation uses medication delivered through a vein. The level of sedation varies with the treatment plan; receiving medication through an IV does not necessarily mean you will be fully unconscious.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia produces a controlled state of unconsciousness. It may be considered when a patient’s needs or the extent of treatment make other approaches unsuitable.
Our dental team works with an anesthesiologist for appropriate sedation and general anesthesia appointments. The dentist focuses on dental treatment while the anesthesiologist manages anesthesia and monitoring.
Sedation and sleep dentistry for children
We work with parents and guardians to understand each child’s dental needs, health and previous experiences.
Options may include supportive techniques, nitrous oxide, sedation or general anesthesia. We explain the recommended approach, alternatives, benefits and risks before treatment. For suitable cases, several dental procedures may be completed in one visit.
Learn more about dental care for infants and toddlers and children’s checkups and cleanings.
What to expect
Your first step is a consultation. We assess your dental needs, review medications and medical history, and discuss your concerns.
Before treatment, you’ll receive instructions specific to your appointment, including eating and drinking, medications, transportation and supervision afterward. Follow these instructions carefully and contact us if your health changes or you have questions.
After treatment, we assess your recovery and provide written aftercare instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Will I be asleep?
That depends on the planned level of sedation. General anesthesia means you are unconscious; lighter sedation helps you relax while you remain responsive.
Can all my dental work be completed in one visit?
Sometimes. This depends on the treatment required, your health and the appointment plan. We’ll explain what can reasonably be completed together, including any separate steps needed for treatments such as dental crowns.
Is sedation suitable for everyone?
No. Each patient needs an assessment. We’ll discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives, and whether treatment in our office is appropriate.
What does it cost?
Costs depend on the dental treatment, sedation option and appointment length. We’ll provide an estimate and discuss applicable coverage before treatment.
Explore all our dental services.