Sedation Dentistry

Doze and Repose with Toronto Sedation Dentistry

Visiting White Tooth Dental shouldn’t be a white-knuckle experience. In fact, our Bloor West dentists have gone out of their way to make coming to our office a peaceful experience, from the pleasant staff to the comfortable surroundings. However, some patients need a little more support, which is why we provide sedation dentistry. We offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation and can customize your experience with either one. The extra layer of relaxation provided by sedation can transform your perception of dental care, replacing white knuckles with bright smiles.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Dental sedation uses medication to help you relax during oral procedures, from cleanings and checkups to crowns and root canals. It’s often used if you experience anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist. It can also be great for loved ones who have sensory or dexterity issues, as well as those with disabilities—sedation can make it easier to sit still and for long periods.

At White Tooth Dental, we offer several sedation options ranging from mild, where you’re awake but relaxed, to more profound sedation, where you’re unaware or in a twilight sleep. Our experienced team will work with you to determine the appropriate level of sedation for you and your needs. We’ll walk you through everything so that you feel confident in the sedation and safe during your procedure.

Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?

Anxiety-Free Visits: Patients with a dental phobia can often rest easy. Our sedation options can create a relaxed and calm state of mind, making your dental experience a positive one.
Diminished Discomfort: Sedation allows many patients to experience minimal to no discomfort during procedures. You might even feel like yours goes by faster!
Efficient Treatment: You can undergo multiple treatments in just a single visit, saving you time and reducing the need for additional appointments.
Calming Environment: Our practice is designed to be a soothing space where you can enjoy peace of mind during your dentist appointments.
Accessibility for All: Sedation for patients with special needs helps ensure everyone can access comfortable dental care.

Need a Little Extra Help to Relax? Try Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, is a mild sedative. Our laughing gas dentist administers it to you with a mask that covers your nose. Inhaling the nitrous induces a state of calm and comfort, helping alleviate anxiety.

One of the major advantages of this sedation option is its rapid onset—you can start to feel its effects within minutes. You can also experience a speedy recovery from the nitrous. The effects are easily reversible and wear off quickly after the mask is removed. You can usually safely drive yourself home from our Bloor West Village dentist office or go back to your daily activities without any prolonged downtime. That can make laughing gas an ideal choice for those seeking a stress-free dental experience that’s also more convenient.

Feeling More than a Little Anxious? Try Oral Conscious Sedation

For deeper relaxation, you can opt for oral sedation dentistry. While you are administered laughing gas at our office, for this option, you take a prescribed pill before your dental appointment. As the name suggests, oral conscious sedation allows you to stay awake and responsive but in a deeply relaxed state during your treatment. This method can be particularly useful if you experience significant dental anxiety or need to undergo longer dental procedures. The medication used for oral conscious sedation is selected based on your specific needs and health history, ensuring a safe experience.

Rest Easy with Our Dentist in Toronto

The team at White Tooth Dental’s Toronto dentist office works to make sure every aspect of your care is handled with sensitivity. Sedation allows us to be sensitive to your fears or different abilities. If you’ve been avoiding going to the dentist due to anxiety or concerns about accessibility, discover the difference sedation can make. Call +1(416) 766-4535 or schedule an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions on Sedation Dentistry:

What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you feel calm and comfortable during dental treatment. It’s commonly used for dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, sensitive teeth, or longer procedures.
What types of sedation do dentists offer?
The most common options are nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation (a pill taken before treatment), and IV sedation. The best choice depends on your anxiety level, medical history, and the procedure.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
For most patients, yes—when properly screened and monitored. Your dentist will review your health history, medications, allergies, and vital signs to ensure sedation is appropriate and safe.
Will I be asleep during sedation?
Usually not. Many patients are awake but deeply relaxed. With IV sedation, some people remember very little, but it’s typically not the same as being fully “put to sleep” like general anesthesia.
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation can be helpful if you have fear of the dentist, past traumatic experiences, difficulty getting numb, a strong gag reflex, special healthcare needs, or you need multiple treatments completed efficiently.
How should I prepare for a sedation appointment?
Preparation depends on the type of sedation. You may need to avoid eating/drinking for a set time, wear comfortable clothing, and bring a list of medications. For oral or IV sedation, you’ll usually need a responsible adult to drive you home.
Can I drive home after sedation dentistry?

Nitrous oxide: often yes, since it wears off quickly
Oral sedation / IV sedation: typically no—you’ll need a ride home and should avoid driving for the rest of the day

What should I expect after sedation dentistry?
You may feel drowsy or groggy for a few hours (especially with oral or IV sedation). Plan to rest, avoid important decisions, and follow post-treatment instructions carefully.
How much does sedation dentistry cost in Canada?
Fees vary by sedation type (nitrous vs oral vs IV), appointment length, and complexity. Some clinics charge by time. An exam/consultation is the best way to get an accurate estimate.
Is sedation covered by dental insurance?
Coverage varies by plan and reason for sedation. Some plans cover sedation for certain procedures or medical needs, while others treat it as an elective add-on. Many clinics can help confirm your benefits before treatment.