Sedation dentistry in Pickering
Could sedation help with dental anxiety?
Pickering sedation dentistry can help some patients feel more at ease while receiving needed dental care. Sedation is considered only after we review your anxiety, planned treatment, medications, health history, and previous experiences. Tell us what makes dental visits difficult so we can discuss practical comfort measures as well as any suitable sedation option.
What sedation options may be discussed?
Nitrous oxide and oxygen
A mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is inhaled through a small mask and can be used for minimal sedation.
Oral sedation
Oral sedation uses prescribed medication and has different preparation, monitoring, and transportation requirements.
The option offered for a particular visit depends on the patient, the procedure, the dentist's authorization, and the level of sedation that is appropriate.
Will I be asleep during sedation dentistry?
Minimal and moderate sedation aren't the same as general anesthesia. With minimal sedation, a patient remains able to respond normally; deeper levels have different clinical and facility requirements. We explain the intended level, what you may feel, fasting or medication instructions, and whether a responsible adult must take you home before you consent.
How is a sedation visit prepared and monitored?
Preparation begins before appointment day. The team confirms the planned procedure, reviews changes in your health or medications, and gives written instructions about food, drink, prescriptions, clothing, and transportation when relevant.
In Ontario, dentists who administer sedation must hold the authorization required by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. During treatment, monitoring and recovery steps match the intended level of sedation and current professional requirements.
If the instructions aren't followed or your health has changed, treatment may need to be adjusted for safety.
Sedation is only one part of an anxiety plan
A clear stop signal, shorter visits, a step-by-step explanation, topical and local anaesthetic when needed, and breaks during treatment can also make care more manageable. Tell us which approaches have helped or failed in the past.
Call (905) 420-1777 or tell us about your concerns when scheduling so the appointment can be planned safely.
Frequently asked questions about sedation dentistry
Clinical team: Dr. Marvin Lean. Last updated: July 27, 2026.
Who should ask about sedation dentistry?
Patients with strong dental anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, difficulty sitting through treatment, or a history of avoiding care can ask for an assessment. Sedation isn't automatically suitable for everyone, so your health history and the planned procedure must be reviewed first.
Can I drive after a sedation appointment?
Transportation instructions depend on the medication and level of sedation. An escort is commonly required for oral or deeper sedation, while instructions for nitrous oxide can differ; follow the specific directions provided by the treating dentist and don't assume you can drive.
Does sedation replace local anaesthetic or freezing?
Not necessarily. Sedation addresses anxiety and awareness, while local anaesthetic is used to numb the treatment area when required. Your dentist will explain which measures are planned for your procedure.
What information should I share before sedation?
Provide a complete list of medications and supplements, allergies, medical conditions, pregnancy status, sleep or breathing concerns, and previous reactions to sedation or anaesthesia. Follow the eating, drinking, medication, and escort instructions you receive for that appointment.
Share what makes dental visits difficult, then call (905) 420-1777 or contact the office to plan an assessment.
Could sedation help with dental anxiety?
Pickering sedation dentistry can help some patients feel more at ease while receiving needed dental care. Sedation is considered only after we review your anxiety, planned treatment, medications, health history, and previous experiences. Tell us what makes dental visits difficult so we can discuss practical comfort measures as well as any suitable sedation option.
What sedation options may be discussed?
Nitrous oxide and oxygen
A mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is inhaled through a small mask and can be used for minimal sedation.
Oral sedation
Oral sedation uses prescribed medication and has different preparation, monitoring, and transportation requirements.
The option offered for a particular visit depends on the patient, the procedure, the dentist's authorization, and the level of sedation that is appropriate.
Will I be asleep during sedation dentistry?
Minimal and moderate sedation aren't the same as general anesthesia. With minimal sedation, a patient remains able to respond normally; deeper levels have different clinical and facility requirements. We explain the intended level, what you may feel, fasting or medication instructions, and whether a responsible adult must take you home before you consent.
How is a sedation visit prepared and monitored?
Preparation begins before appointment day. The team confirms the planned procedure, reviews changes in your health or medications, and gives written instructions about food, drink, prescriptions, clothing, and transportation when relevant.
In Ontario, dentists who administer sedation must hold the authorization required by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. During treatment, monitoring and recovery steps match the intended level of sedation and current professional requirements.
If the instructions aren't followed or your health has changed, treatment may need to be adjusted for safety.
Sedation is only one part of an anxiety plan
A clear stop signal, shorter visits, a step-by-step explanation, topical and local anaesthetic when needed, and breaks during treatment can also make care more manageable. Tell us which approaches have helped or failed in the past.
Call (905) 420-1777 or tell us about your concerns when scheduling so the appointment can be planned safely.
Frequently asked questions about sedation dentistry
Clinical team: Dr. Marvin Lean. Last updated: July 27, 2026.
Who should ask about sedation dentistry?
Patients with strong dental anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, difficulty sitting through treatment, or a history of avoiding care can ask for an assessment. Sedation isn't automatically suitable for everyone, so your health history and the planned procedure must be reviewed first.
Can I drive after a sedation appointment?
Transportation instructions depend on the medication and level of sedation. An escort is commonly required for oral or deeper sedation, while instructions for nitrous oxide can differ; follow the specific directions provided by the treating dentist and don't assume you can drive.
Does sedation replace local anaesthetic or freezing?
Not necessarily. Sedation addresses anxiety and awareness, while local anaesthetic is used to numb the treatment area when required. Your dentist will explain which measures are planned for your procedure.
What information should I share before sedation?
Provide a complete list of medications and supplements, allergies, medical conditions, pregnancy status, sleep or breathing concerns, and previous reactions to sedation or anaesthesia. Follow the eating, drinking, medication, and escort instructions you receive for that appointment.
Share what makes dental visits difficult, then call (905) 420-1777 or contact the office to plan an assessment.
