If the sound of a dental drill makes your heart race, if you’ve cancelled dental appointments more times than you can count, if you’ve been putting off needed care for years because of fear — you are absolutely not alone.
Dental anxiety affects an estimated 36% of adults. Some people experience it as mild nervousness; for others, it’s a full-blown phobia that keeps them from getting care they desperately need. The result? Worsening dental problems, increasing pain, and a cycle that makes the eventual dentist visit even more daunting. At Medora Dental Care in Abbotsford, we’ve built our entire practice culture around one mission: making dentistry gentle, compassionate, and — for the patients who need it — completely relaxed through our sedation dentistry options.
Dental anxiety affects an estimated 36% of adults. Some people experience it as mild nervousness; for others, it’s a full-blown phobia that keeps them from getting care they desperately need. The result? Worsening dental problems, increasing pain, and a cycle that makes the eventual dentist visit even more daunting. At Medora Dental Care in Abbotsford, we’ve built our entire practice culture around one mission: making dentistry gentle, compassionate, and — for the patients who need it — completely relaxed through our sedation dentistry options.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Depending on the level of sedation, you may be completely awake (but deeply relaxed), drowsy and hazy, or in some cases entirely asleep. It’s safe, carefully monitored, and extraordinarily effective for anxious patients.
At Medora Dental Care, our sedation dentist Dr. Ghazvini specializes in this area, approaching every nervous patient with calm, patience, and genuine empathy.
At Medora Dental Care, our sedation dentist Dr. Ghazvini specializes in this area, approaching every nervous patient with calm, patience, and genuine empathy.
Types of Sedation Dentistry We Offer in Abbotsford
1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
The mildest and most commonly used form of sedation. Nitrous oxide is delivered through a small nose mask and takes effect within minutes. You’ll feel relaxed, comfortable, and slightly euphoric — fully conscious but at ease.
The effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed, so you can drive yourself home after your appointment. This makes it an excellent option for routine procedures, mild anxiety, and patients who have appointments during work hours.
The effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed, so you can drive yourself home after your appointment. This makes it an excellent option for routine procedures, mild anxiety, and patients who have appointments during work hours.
2. Oral Sedation
A prescription sedative pill (typically from the benzodiazepine family) is taken about an hour before your appointment. You’ll be awake but deeply relaxed — and many patients remember little to nothing of the procedure. You will need someone to drive you home.
Oral sedation is ideal for moderate to severe dental anxiety, longer procedures, or patients who have a strong gag reflex.
Oral sedation is ideal for moderate to severe dental anxiety, longer procedures, or patients who have a strong gag reflex.
3. Combination Approaches
For certain patients and procedures, we may combine techniques — for example, oral sedation followed by nitrous oxide — to achieve the ideal level of comfort. Your plan is always tailored to your specific needs after a thorough consultation.
Who Is Sedation Dentistry Right For?
Sedation dentistry may be the answer if you:
- Experience significant anxiety or fear about dental visits
- Have had a traumatic dental experience in the past
- Have a strong gag reflex that makes treatment difficult
- Have very sensitive teeth or low pain tolerance
- Need multiple procedures completed in one visit
- Have difficulty sitting still or staying open for long periods
- Have avoided the dentist for years and need to ‘catch up’ on care
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, when administered by a trained and experienced dental professional. At Medora Dental Care, your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure, and we follow all safety protocols for sedation administration. Before recommending sedation, we’ll review your full medical history and any medications you take to ensure there are no contraindications.
Dr. Ghazvini’s specific expertise in sedation dentistry and TMJ treatment means you’re in highly experienced hands.
Dr. Ghazvini’s specific expertise in sedation dentistry and TMJ treatment means you’re in highly experienced hands.
What Procedures Can Be Done with Sedation?
At Medora Dental Care, sedation can be used for virtually any procedure, including:
Our team performs wisdom teeth removal in Abbotsford with sedation options that make the experience remarkably calm.
- Routine cleanings and check-ups (for severely anxious patients)
- Dental fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal
- Dental implant placement
- Multiple procedures in a single appointment
- Deep cleaning / periodontal treatment
Our team performs wisdom teeth removal in Abbotsford with sedation options that make the experience remarkably calm.
What to Expect at Your Sedation Dentistry Appointment
Before Your Appointment
If you’re receiving oral sedation, you’ll take the medication about an hour before arriving. For any sedation appointment, arrange for a trusted adult to drive you home. Follow any fasting or dietary instructions we provide.
During Your Appointment
You’ll be welcomed warmly, settled comfortably, and your sedation will be administered. Once you’re relaxed, our team will complete your treatment. You may be aware of sounds or movement but won’t feel anxious or uncomfortable. Many patients don’t even remember the procedure.
After Your Appointment
Depending on the sedation type, recovery is quick. With nitrous oxide, you’re ready to drive within minutes. With oral sedation, you’ll need to rest at home for the remainder of the day. We’ll give you complete aftercare instructions and follow up with you.
How Medora Dental Care Creates Comfort Beyond Sedation
Sedation is one of many tools we use to create a positive dental experience. Our team works hard to ensure every patient feels comfortable from the moment they walk through our door:
Suffering from jaw pain alongside dental anxiety? Our TMJ and neuromuscular dentistry services may provide relief you didn’t expect.
- A warm, calming clinic environment designed to reduce anxiety
- Transparent communication — we explain everything before we do it
- Unhurried appointments — you’re never rushed or pressured
- Judgment-free zone — no matter how long it’s been since your last visit
- Staff trained to recognise and respond to anxiety cues
Suffering from jaw pain alongside dental anxiety? Our TMJ and neuromuscular dentistry services may provide relief you didn’t expect.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry in Abbotsford
Q: Will I be unconscious with sedation dentistry?
Not necessarily. With nitrous oxide and most oral sedation, you remain conscious but deeply relaxed. You can respond to questions and instructions. General anesthesia (full unconsciousness) is different and is typically only used in hospital settings.
Q: Can my child receive sedation dentistry?
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is commonly and safely used for children who are anxious or need extensive dental work. We’ll discuss the best approach for your child during a consultation.
Q: Will sedation dentistry cost more?
There is typically an additional fee for sedation services, which varies by the type used. Some insurance plans cover a portion of sedation costs. We’ll provide a complete cost breakdown before your appointment.
Q: What if I've been avoiding the dentist for years?
You’ve come to the right place. We offer a completely judgment-free environment and are experienced with patients who haven’t seen a dentist in years (or decades). We’ll prioritize your most urgent needs and create a comfortable, manageable plan.
Q: How do I get started with sedation dentistry at Medora?
Simply call us at (604) 746-1295 or book online at www.medoradental.com. Mention that you’re interested in sedation options when you call — our team will ensure you’re paired with the right appointment type and set your mind at ease before you even arrive.