Sedation Q & A

Who is a candidate for sedation? 

If you have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist you are a candidate for sedation dentistry. If you have a fear of pain, have had a traumatic dental experience in the past, or the sounds and smells of a dental office make you nauseous, sedation dentistry can help you get over your anxiety.  Some people have physical reasons, like a bad gag reflex or very sensitive teeth, which make them a candidate for sedation dentistry as well. Sedation dentistry is also recommended for long or difficult procedures including Wisdom Tooth Extraction. If you are not sure if you are a candidate please ask Dr. Gakhal or a member of the team.

There are some medical conditions that may make you not suitable for sedation, or may require special attention during sedation. It is important that Dr. Gakhal does a thorough medical history review with you and knows about all past and current medical conditions, including medications and other drugs you may be taking prior to booking any treatment with sedation. 

Can my child have sedation?

There are several sedation options for children. Depending on their age and the amount of treatment needed, they may be given an oral sedative, nitrous oxide, IV sedation or go under General Anesthesia. Viewmont Dental Centre does not administer sedation to children. Instead we will refer you to a periodontics dentist, whom we trust. A dentist who specializes in children and sedating children will ensure that your child will have the safest and most comfortable dental experience possible in the given situation.

We are more than happy to see your children for routine checkups and cleanings and the occasional filling (without sedation).

Will I be unconscious?  No, but you will be in a deep state of relaxation during your treatment. You will still be able to breathe on your own and communicate, but you will not feel any pain or anxiety. You may not even remember the procedure afterwards.  

How long will I be sedated?  

Sedation can last from about 2-6 hours depending on the strength of sedative you are given and how long your procedure takes.  

Will I be monitored? 

Yes, at all times during your sedation a trained team member will be dedicated to monitoring you. We will monitor your vitals as well as general signs of well being to make sure they remain at a normal level. Safety is of the utmost importance to us, and all of the staff at Viewmont Dental Centre is trained in First Aid and CPR. Dr. Gakhal is trained in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, the same training that emergency room doctors have. 

Are there any long term effects of sedation?  

No. You will feel a little groggy and "out of it" after some forms of sedation, but after a few hours you will feel like yourself again. You will need to have someone drive you home from your appointment as your motor skills and cognitive function may be impaired.  

What procedures can be performed under sedation?  

Just about any procedure can be performed with sedation. The sedation is not for the procedure itself, but for the anxiety that accompanies the procedure. 

How many appointments will I need to complete my dental work?  

In most cases it only takes two appointments. The first appointment will be a consultation to check your health history and make sure you are a candidate for sedation. The next appointment will be to perform the necessary procedures. This can usually be done in one appointment, but may require a follow up visit.  

Will my insurance cover sedation?  

In most cases it will not be covered by your insurance provider, the exception is Wisdom Tooth Extraction, these are usually covered. We will review your insurance coverage and let you know if it is covered or not. If it is not covered, we will let you know the cost and, if necessary, we can put together a financing plan for you.

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