Many people feel uneasy about visiting the dentist. Bright lights, unfamiliar sounds, and past experiences can easily heighten anxiety. At Avyan Family Dental, we understand how overwhelming that can feel, which is why we offer sedation dentistry in NW Calgary designed to help you feel more relaxed, supported, and at ease throughout your visit.
Below, we break down how sedation works, who may benefit from it, and what you can expect throughout the process.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients feel more relaxed during dental treatment. It is sometimes informally referred to as “sleep dentistry,” but this term can be misleading. Under most forms of sedation used in general dentistry, you remain conscious and able to respond to instructions. General anesthesia is different and does induce a state of sleep.
At Avyan Family Dental, we provide two primary forms of sedation:
Oral Sedation Dentistry
A prescribed pill taken before your appointment that helps create a calm, drowsy, and more relaxed state. Many patients report feeling less aware of sights, sounds, and sensations during treatment.
IV Sedation Dentistry
Medication carefully administered through an intravenous line, offering a deeper level of relaxation. IV sedation begins working more quickly and can be adjusted throughout your appointment.
These forms of sedation may be helpful for individuals with dental anxiety, those with a strong gag reflex, patients with heightened sensitivity, or people undergoing longer or more complex procedures.
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?
Patients across NW Calgary choose sedation for many reasons, including:
- Feeling calmer and more comfortable during dental treatment
- Reducing anxiety surrounding needles, dental equipment, or past experiences
- Helping minimize discomfort when combined with dental anesthetic
- Supporting patients with difficulty sitting still for longer procedures
- Allowing multiple treatments to be completed in fewer visits
Who May Benefit from Sedation?
Sedation dentistry can support a wide range of patients, including:
- Adults with dental anxiety or phobia
- Children who struggle to remain still or feel overwhelmed by dental environments
- Individuals with a strong gag reflex
- Patients with low pain tolerance or sensitive teeth
- People undergoing multiple treatments or surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth removal
Our team frequently supports patients from Tuscany, Scenic Acres, Royal Oak, Crowfoot, and surrounding NW Calgary communities who prefer a more comfortable and relaxed dental experience.
What To Expect Before, During, and After Sedation
Before Your Appointment
- You’ll receive clear guidance on when to take any prescribed medication for oral sedation.
- For IV sedation, you will arrive a little earlier so our team can prepare you comfortably.
- We will review your medical history and ensure sedation is an appropriate option for you.
During Your Appointment
- You remain conscious and able to respond, though you may feel deeply relaxed.
- Many patients recall very little about the procedure due to the calming effects of the medication.
- Your vital signs, comfort, and well-being are continuously monitored throughout the visit.
After Your Appointment
- You will need a responsible adult to drive you home, as the calming effects of sedation last beyond the appointment.
- Patients usually feel more alert within several hours, though a full return to normal may take up to 24 hours.
We provide detailed after-care instructions, including what to expect and how to support your recovery comfortably.
How Safe Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is considered suitable and appropriate when administered by trained and licensed dental professionals who follow established guidelines. Our team continuously monitors your breathing, heart rate, and overall health throughout the entire process. Sedation may not be suitable for everyone, particularly individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications. A thorough medical review helps ensure that sedation is used appropriately.
About Avyan Family Dental: We’re a gentle, family-first dental team serving NW Calgary. Learn more about our compassionate approach on our About page.
What Patients in NW Calgary Are Saying
“Amazing dental clinic. The place is very clean, calm, and welcoming. The staff and doctor are professional, kind, and make you feel very comfortable. I would definitely recommend Avyan Family Dental to others.” – Nijesh K.
Ready for sedation care?
If you’re ready to experience calm, confident dental care, call us at (587) 327-9990 to book a visit!
FAQs About Sedation Dentistry in NW Calgary
Is oral sedation dentistry safe for nervous dental patients?
Oral sedation is generally considered a suitable option when prescribed and monitored by a trained dental professional. It works by reducing anxiety and helping you feel more relaxed throughout your visit. You remain awake and responsive, but the calming effects can make the experience feel much easier. Our team will review your health history to ensure oral sedation is appropriate for you and discuss what to expect before and after your appointment.
Can sedation dentistry help with a strong gag reflex?
Yes. Sedation dentistry is often recommended for patients with a strong gag reflex because it helps reduce the reflex response and makes treatment more comfortable. Many individuals from areas such as Royal Oak and Arbour Lake find that sedation allows them to complete procedures that would otherwise feel challenging. By creating a calmer, more controlled experience, sedation can help make routine and complex dental visits more manageable. Have questions? Call us at (587) 327-9990!
Is IV sedation better for wisdom tooth removal?
IV sedation is often chosen for wisdom tooth removal because it provides a deeper level of relaxation, making longer or more involved procedures feel much more comfortable. While not necessary for every patient, IV sedation can help reduce anxiety and support a smoother treatment experience. Our NW Calgary clinic offers both oral and IV sedation options, and we can help you decide which approach aligns best with your needs and the complexity of your specific case.
How do I book sedation dentistry in NW Calgary?
Booking is simple. You can schedule an appointment online or give us a call during our extended evening hours. Our clinic is conveniently located near Crowfoot LRT, making visits accessible for families and professionals across NW Calgary. If you’re interested in exploring sedation options, our team is happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Is sedation safe for children or seniors?
When sedation dentistry is carefully planned and delivered by trusted general dentists, it can be an appropriate option for many children and older adults. Our dental team factors in every patient’s unique medical conditions, any medications they are currently taking, growth and development considerations for children, and the level of caregiver support available. Connect with us to learn more at (587) 327-9990!
Who needs IV sedation?
Sedation dentistry provides essential options for patients who find traditional appointments challenging. We offer solutions designed to support individuals experiencing dental phobias or severe anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or difficulty achieving numbness with standard local anesthetics. Furthermore, sedation may be ideal for patients with a limited ability to open their jaw or for those who require a significant amount of dental work. Visit our Sedation Dentistry page for more details!
