What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry allows qualified patients to remove their feelings of anxiety, fear, and sometimes even the memory of the appointment itself by entering a state of reduced awareness. It is also helpful to treat an extreme gag reflex.

Also known as conscious oral sedation, the medication used for sedation dentistry is typically a prescription sedative in pill form.

How much does sedation dentistry cost?

For a limited time, we are offering sedation dentistry as a free service when it’s necessary to help you reach your best possible oral health.

Most dentists in Calgary charge $500 to $700 for sedation dentistry.

Helping you feel comfortable and happy to visit the dentist ensures your teeth get the best preventative care, which is as important as treating cavities and gum disease.

We 100% follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Find out more in our guide to affordable dentistry.

Who qualifies for free sedation dentistry?

For healthy adult patients, we provide free dental sedation after a thorough examination and review of your medical history. We strive to minimize drug prescription.

While conscious oral sedation is typically only for adults, teens 13 and older may qualify in specific cases (with parent or guardian consent).

CDSA regulations require sedation dentistry patients to have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or less.

How does sedation dentistry work?

To reduce anxiety about the visit and ensure your safety, sedation dentistry appointments include some extra steps:

1. Ask about sedation dentistry when you book online, or contact us.

2. We’ll set up an initial visit with Dr. Jeffrey Ma to carefully assess your overall health, conduct a thorough review of your medical history, and understand the specific nature of your dental anxiety.

3. The initial visit includes a comprehensive examination and X-rays to see what treatment is needed. If anxiety prevents you from doing this without being sedated then, upon request, we’ll set up a meet-and-greet at an office desk first.

4. After you review and sign an information and consent form, we’ll prescribe you a sedative at a dose that relieves your anxiety.

5. Before your appointment, you take the sedative (usually in pill form). It typically lasts for 2 to 8 hours.

6. A friend or family member drives you to your appointment.*

7. During your appointment you remain awake and are able to respond to questions, but are in a state of reduced awareness. The sedative removes feelings of anxiety, fear, and sometimes even the memory of the appointment itself. Our team is specially-trained to monitor your safety while sedated.

8. A friend or family member drives you home from your appointment.*

*For everyone’s safety, we require that patients using oral sedation are driven to and from their appointments and do not operate a vehicle for 24 hours. We follow all CDSA regulations for sedation.