Sedation dentistry refers to the use of pharmacological agents to calm and relax a patient before and during a dental appointment. It’s intended to keep the patient comfortable, allowing the procedure to be completed with minimal distress. It’s beneficial for people who experience dental anxiety or those undertaking lengthy treatment, and can be used for everything from a simple cleaning to a more invasive dental procedure. Dental sedation is a valuable clinical tool.
Levels of sedation available:
- Minimal sedation: you’re awake but relaxed.
- Moderate sedation/conscious sedation: you feel drowsy and relaxed, and often have little or no memory of the procedure.
- Deep sedation: you're on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
- General anesthesia: you’re completely unconscious.
What we offer at Vitality Oral Health
At our clinic, we provide oral (enteral) sedation combined with local anesthesia. This is a safe, well-established approach for patients who feel anxious or have difficulty sitting through dental treatment. You’ll take a prescribed sedative before your appointment to help you feel calm and comfortable, and local anesthetic is given once the sedation has taken effect.
Who benefits from oral sedation?
This option is often helpful for those with:
- Dental anxiety or fear of visiting the dentist
- An overly sensitive gag reflex
- A fear of needles
- Feelings of claustrophobia in the dental chair
- Difficulty controlling movements
- Special needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioural)
If you feel anxious or afraid about a dental appointment, talk to us about your options. We’ll explain what’s available and recommend an approach based on your needs and medical history.
IV sedation and general anesthesia
Some patients require a deeper level of sedation than oral sedation can provide. These services are not offered at our Vitality Oral Health clinic. Dr. Fares holds privileges at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre Dental Clinic, where this care can be arranged:
- IV sedation is provided at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre Dental Clinic.
- General anesthesia is provided in a hospital-based operating room setting.
This level of care is appropriate for patients with significant medical complexity, extensive surgical needs, special needs, or cases where oral sedation is not sufficient. (BMI>45).
For referring providers: Please direct referrals for general anesthesia to the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre Dental Clinic (5th Floor, 3395 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 5G2) rather than to our office. We’re happy to help coordinate care.
Dental sedation is required during:
- Dental implants
- Extractions
- Root canals
- Periodontal (gum) surgery
- Emergency dentistry
What happens during sedation dentistry?
Your dentist gives you sedative medications before beginning your procedure. You’ll receive a local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums, but this is done once you’re already feeling comfortable from the sedatives.At Vitality Oral Health, we help you create the smile you desire through the use of a variety of cosmetic dental treatments. Call us today and start the journey toward your best smile!
What happens after sedation?
You’ll need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after any sedation appointment. Go straight home and rest while the medication wears off. Before leaving you alone, your driver should make sure you’re resting comfortably.
If you suffer from dental fear or are facing extensive treatment, talk to us about your options. We’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and, where appropriate, coordinate care at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre Dental Clinic. Contact us today to make an appointment.
If you suffer from dental fear or are undergoing extensive procedures, Vitality Oral Health can help. We provide all levels of sedation, when needed. We are one of only three dentists in Calgary with access to IV sedation and general anesthesia in hospital operating room settings. Visit us to talk about your fears. We’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Contact us today to make an appointment.