Sedation Dentistry
Comfortable, fear-free dental care for anxious patients — you relax, we take care of the rest.
Relax Through Your Dental Visit
Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people avoid necessary dental care — and one of the most treatable. Sedation dentistry allows anxious patients, those with a strong gag reflex, or those who need extensive work completed efficiently to receive treatment in a deeply relaxed, comfortable state.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild, safe sedative inhaled through a small mask over your nose. It produces a feeling of calm and mild euphoria within minutes. You remain fully conscious and responsive, but anxiety fades significantly. The effects wear off within minutes of removing the mask, so you can drive yourself home. Nitrous oxide is safe for children and adults.
Oral Sedation
For patients with more significant anxiety, we can prescribe an oral sedative medication taken 30–60 minutes before your appointment. Oral sedation produces deeper relaxation — you may feel drowsy or even doze during treatment, though you'll remain conscious. You'll need a driver, and the drowsiness can last several hours after the appointment.
Who Benefits from Sedation
Sedation is ideal for patients with dental anxiety or phobia, a sensitive gag reflex, difficulty getting numb with local anaesthesia, a low pain threshold, or those who need multiple procedures completed in fewer appointments. It's also used for children who cannot cooperate for treatment due to age or anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be unconscious?
No — both nitrous oxide and oral sedation are conscious sedation options. You remain awake and responsive but deeply relaxed. General anaesthesia (full unconsciousness) is not offered in our office.
Is sedation safe?
Yes. Both nitrous oxide and oral sedation have excellent safety records when administered by trained professionals. We review your health history thoroughly before recommending sedation.
Will I remember my appointment?
With oral sedation, many patients have little to no memory of the procedure — which many anxious patients find extremely beneficial.
Ready to Get Started?
Same-day appointments are available. Book online or call us — our team will help you choose the right sedation option for a comfortable visit.