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Sedation Dentistry

Four types of sedation help anxious, disabled, or special needs patients remain calm and comfortable during dental procedures. Find out more.

Sedation Relieves Anxiety

Dental patients sometimes have anxiety. Some are fearful. Others are diagnosed with ADHD and can’t sit through a dental procedure. Whatever your reason, sedation dentistry at Versante Dental in Mississauga can help calm you and make your dental experience more comfortable.

No Shame in Needing Sedation

Patients can feel embarrassed about stating they need sedation. They think being an adult means they are never anxious. Our staff knows differently. We understand anxiety and fear of dentists can come from childhood conditioning, a past trauma, or out of nowhere. We don’t want your anxiety to prevent you from getting the quality oral health care you need.

Besides those with anxiety, sedation dentistry can help:

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Children

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Those who have restless leg or other disorders

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Patients with hyperactivity disorder

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Special needs patients who can’t sit still or understand the procedure

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Disabled patients who have trouble enduring long procedures

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Dementia patients who get confused

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Types of Sedation Available

Four types of sedation are available for dental procedures, but three are primarily used because they are lighter and generally suitable for most procedures.
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Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is also called laughing gas. It is administered with a mask over the nose and is a good option for children. The patient is still conscious so they can answer questions. They wake up when they start breathing room air. The grogginess wears off reasonably quickly but you will still need a driver to take you home. This option is safe for all ages.

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Oral Medication

The pill form of sedation is prescribed before your procedure and is taken just before your trip to the dental clinic. Therefore, you will need a driver to take you there and back. You are drowsy upon arrival and will fall into a light, groggy sleep during the procedure. There is still enough consciousness to answer questions. The medication leaves you tired and draggy the rest of the day, so someone will need to be with you as you recover at home.

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IV Medication

An IV sedation works fast because it is administered directly into your bloodstream. It puts you in a twilight sleep, and you may even doze off several times. It is a good choice for longer, complicated procedures and requires a driver to take you home. You will need some aftercare with this sedation, such as more rest and a light meal.

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General Anaesthesia

General anaesthesia is the least commonly used because other options carry lower risk. General anaesthesia is safe and appropriate for invasive procedures where any movement would jeopardize the patient or the procedure.

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Fitting a nitrous oxide mask for sedation dentistry in Mississauga

Avoiding Side Effects

Sedation dentistry is safe but can come with side effects like nausea. Other side effects include:
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Ongoing grogginess

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Brain fog

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Dry mouth

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Dizziness

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Headaches

In some cases, there are rare and more serious risks like blood pressure drops, allergic reactions, and breathing challenges. Our staff mitigate those risks by reviewing your medical records, communicating with your primary care doctor, and conducting a thorough evaluation before approving sedation dentistry.
We at Versante Dental can help you avoid these side effects with advice and recommendations.
  • CheckmarkBefore the Appointment
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Consult with the dentist about ongoing medications
  • Maintain a healthy diet featuring proteins, fruits, and vegetables
  • CheckmarkAfter the Sedation Dentistry Procedure
  • Continue to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours
  • Drink clear fluids, especially water or ginger tea, a little at a time
  • Eat light, soft foods
  • Avoid quick movements like standing too fast
  • Avoid physical activity for 24 hours. Rest and nap.
  • Suck on ice chips to relieve a dry mouth
Cosmetic dentistry

Is Sedation Dentistry Worth It?

For those who have anxiety, fear, or physical issues preventing them from fully cooperating in a dental chair, sedation dentistry is a lifesaver. We work with all our patients to ensure their comfort and safety during our procedures. Call us or schedule an appointment to talk about how sedation dentistry can help you.

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FAQ

How do I pick which sedation therapy to use?
Our dental professionals can help. They look at your overall health, needs, and planned procedure to narrow your choices.
How long does it take for sedation to wear off?
Usually, it takes a day to feel normal again. You can resume normal activities the next day if you feel up to it, although you may want to stick to some dietary rules for a full 24 hours.
Will I know what is happening during the procedure?
In a sense, yes. You will be able to answer questions under most sedation options but you will not care. You won’t remember the procedure after either.
Are there any lasting effects of sedation dentistry?
No, the effects wear off within 24 to 48 hours.