Sedation Dentistry

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during a dental procedure. Patients are usually awake while this happens, unless a general anaesthesia is used.

Here are the levels of sedation most commonly used:

• Minimal sedation – awake but relaxed.
• Moderate sedation (formerly called “conscious sedation”) – you may slur your words when speaking and not remember much of the procedure.
• Deep sedation – edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
• General anesthesia – completely unconscious.

Regardless of the sedation you receive, you will also receive a local anesthetic (numbing medication) where the dentist is working in the mouth in order to relieve possible pain or discomfort.