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General Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry in Vancouver

Experience stress-free dental care with our sedation options. Whether you have dental anxiety or need extensive treatment, we make your visit comfortable and relaxed.

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Where we offer this

Available at all four Smile Well Dental clinics.

North VancouverVisit our North Vancouver clinicSurreyVisit our Surrey clinicLangleyVisit our Langley clinicCoquitlamVisit our Coquitlam clinic

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients relax during dental treatments. It's sometimes called 'sleep dentistry,' although most patients remain awake. We offer various levels of sedation to match your comfort needs, from mild relaxation with nitrous oxide to deeper sedation for more complex procedures or severe dental anxiety.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry in Vancouver

Overcome Dental Anxiety

Finally get the dental care you need without fear or stress.

Comfortable Experience

Relax completely during your procedure with no discomfort.

Time Efficiency

Complete multiple procedures in a single visit while sedated.

No Memory of Procedure

With deeper sedation, you may have little to no memory of the treatment.

Sedation Dentistry Process

01

Consultation

We discuss your anxiety levels, medical history, and recommend the appropriate sedation option.

02

Pre-Procedure Instructions

You'll receive specific instructions about eating, drinking, and transportation for your appointment.

03

Sedation Administration

Sedation is administered before or during your procedure, and you're monitored throughout.

04

Recovery

After the procedure, you'll rest until the sedation wears off. Someone must drive you home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Options range from mild sedation (nitrous oxide/laughing gas) where you're awake but relaxed, to oral sedation (pills), to deeper IV sedation where you may have little to no memory of the procedure.

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients with dental anxiety or phobia, sensitive gag reflex, difficulty sitting still, low pain threshold, need for extensive dental work, or those who want to complete multiple procedures comfortably in one visit.

Yes, when administered by trained dental professionals. We carefully review your complete medical history, monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure, and have emergency equipment on hand. Millions of sedation procedures are performed safely each year.

It depends on the sedation level. With nitrous oxide, you'll be fully conscious but relaxed. Oral sedation creates deeper relaxation where you may feel drowsy. With IV sedation, you'll be in a twilight state and likely won't remember the procedure, though you can still respond to verbal cues.

Sedation is charged in addition to the dental procedure itself, and the cost depends on the type of sedation and how long your appointment takes. Ask us for a quote. Some insurance plans provide partial coverage.

With nitrous oxide, you can drive home after a brief recovery period as the effects wear off quickly. For oral or IV sedation, you must arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for several hours, as the sedative effects can last 4-6 hours.

For oral or IV sedation, you'll need to fast (no food or drink) for 6-8 hours before your appointment. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Arrange transportation home. Follow any specific pre-sedation instructions we provide.

Smile Well Dental offers sedation dentistry options at our Greater Vancouver locations. We provide nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help anxious patients receive comfortable dental care. Contact us to discuss which sedation option is right for you.

Don't Let Fear Stop You From Getting Dental Care

Contact us today to learn about our sedation options and schedule a comfortable visit.

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