Sedation Dentistry

At MyDentist, we understand that dental anxiety is a common concern. If the thought of visiting the dentist fills you with dread, you’re not alone. Many individuals experience fear or apprehension about dental procedures. Fortunately, we offer various sedation dentistry options to help you feel comfortable and relaxed during your visit. Our goal is to ensure that your comfort is a priority, allowing you to maintain optimal oral health without stress. We provide sedation for patients of all ages, addressing varying levels of anxiety, from mild nervousness to severe dental phobias.There are three types of conscious sedation available to dentists: nitrous oxide gas, oral (pill) sedation & intravenous (IV) sedation.

Dental anxiety affects countless patients across Toronto, preventing many from receiving essential oral care. At MyDentist, we understand these concerns and offer professional sedation dentistry services at both our Middlefield and Pharmacy locations. Our approach helps patients of all anxiety levels – from mild nervousness to severe dental phobia – receive the care they need comfortably and safely.

Conscious sedation is a safe and effective method to help you relax during dental procedures. You will remain awake and able to communicate with our dental team, but you will feel calm, comfortable, and drowsy. While you’ll be conscious, you may have limited or no memory of the appointment. We offer three types of conscious sedation: nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation.

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is a mild form of sedation administered through a small mask placed over your nose. It works quickly, and our dentists can adjust the dosage as needed. A significant advantage of nitrous oxide is that its effects wear off within minutes after the gas is turned off, allowing you to drive home safely after your appointment. Side effects are rare but may include mild nausea, headache, or dizziness.

Oral sedation involves taking an anti-anxiety pill approximately one hour before your scheduled treatment. This method is convenient for patients seeking a less invasive sedation option that doesn’t require extensive in-office preparation. However, unlike nitrous oxide, oral sedation can cause drowsiness, fatigue, and impaired coordination after your appointment. Therefore, you will need a designated driver to take you home.

Intravenous (IV) sedation is the strongest form of conscious sedation we offer. It uses similar medications to oral sedation but is administered directly into your bloodstream via a needle. This method provides a faster and more potent effect, allowing our dentists to precisely control the dosage. While you will recover more quickly from IV sedation than oral sedation, you will still require someone to drive you home.

Before undergoing any form of sedation, it’s essential to consult with our team to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Certain medical conditions, such as heart, lung, or liver dysfunction, can be exacerbated by dental sedation. Additionally, pregnant or nursing women cannot receive sedation due to potential risks to the child. Please discuss your medical history and any concerns with our team or your primary care physician. You will also need to provide a list of all prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements you are currently taking, as some may interact negatively with sedatives.

To ensure your safety, please refrain from eating or drinking non-clear liquids for at least six hours before your appointment. If you are receiving oral or IV sedation, arrange for transportation to and from our office. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day, and avoid driving, strenuous physical activity, or operating heavy machinery until the following day.

Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from achieving the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve. Contact MyDentist today to discuss which sedation option is best for you.