Dental anxiety is very common, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about. At Brampton Smiles we help nervous patients get the care they need, at their own pace. Oral sedation is one tool. So are longer appointments, clear explanations and a hand signal that stops treatment right away. You can also start with a visit where nothing is done at all.
Our sedation and comfort options
- Oral sedation. A tablet you take before your appointment, with no needle to start it. It is offered for mild through severe dental anxiety.
- Local anesthetic. Still used to numb the tooth. Sedation calms you, and freezing blocks sensation.
- No-treatment introductory visit. A first visit where nothing is placed in your mouth, and no exam is done unless you ask.
- Deeper sedation or general anesthesia. Not offered in-office. If you need it, we refer you to a practitioner with the right facilities and training.
Who is sedation dentistry for?
- people with dental phobia, or who have avoided care for years
- anyone with a bad past dental experience
- people with a strong gag reflex
- people who numb slowly or find freezing unreliable
- long appointments or several procedures in one visit
- people who cannot sit comfortably for long
- surgical extractions and more involved treatment
How it works
- Medical review. We go over your history, medications, allergies and any past experience with sedation.
- Instructions. We tell you when to take the tablet and what to eat or drink beforehand.
- Your escort. A responsible adult must bring you and drive you home.
- Treatment. You are awake, responsive and relaxed. The hand signal that stops treatment still applies.
- Recovery. Plan a quiet day. Do not drive, work or make big decisions.
Is oral sedation safe?
Oral sedation has a long safety record when it is assessed and monitored properly. We review your medical history and medications before prescribing it. For some patients, other comfort measures are a better fit, and we will tell you. A phone consultation is available before you book, with no obligation.
Other ways we keep you comfortable
- longer appointment slots
- an agreed hand signal that stops treatment immediately
- "tell-show-do": instruments are explained and shown before use
- morning appointments
- headphones and your own music
- topical numbing gel before injections, and warmed, slowly delivered anesthetic
- splitting treatment into shorter visits
- explaining the plan and costs in advance
Children and sedation
For children we prefer behaviour guidance over medication. Oral sedation is considered case by case where it is clinically appropriate, and parents can stay in the room with younger children. Cases that need deeper sedation are referred to a paediatric specialist.
Cost and insurance
Sedation coverage varies by plan. Some extended Canadian plans cover it when it is clinically justified, especially with surgery. We check coverage and give a written estimate beforehand. We direct-bill Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield and CDCP where applicable, and offer 0% in-house payment plans with no third party.
Before Your Visit
- Tell us at booking that you would like sedation or a comfort-focused visit.
- Follow our instructions for when to take your tablet and what to eat and drink.
- Arrange a ride home with a responsible adult.
- List your medications, allergies and any past reactions to sedation or anesthetic.
- Wear comfortable clothes, and bring headphones if you like.
After Your Treatment
- Go straight home with your escort and rest. Do not drive, operate machinery or make big decisions for the rest of the day.
- Have someone with you at home until the effects wear off.
- Follow the aftercare instructions for the treatment you had.
- Eat light foods first, and drink fluids.
- Call us if you feel unwell or have questions. Our number is (905) 793-8668.
Visit Brampton Smiles
50 Sunny Meadow Blvd, Unit 300, Brampton, ON L6R 0Y7, near Bovaird Drive East. Phone: (905) 793-8668.
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 10 AM to 7 PM. Tue, Fri 10 AM to 5 PM. Sat 9 AM to 2 PM. Sun closed.
Call to book a sedation consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be asleep?
No. You are awake, relaxed and able to respond. Deeper sedation or general anesthesia is not offered in-office.
Can I use sedation for wisdom teeth removal?
Oral sedation is an option for surgical extractions and more involved treatment. We discuss it at your consultation.
What is a no-treatment introductory visit?
A first visit where nothing goes in your mouth and no exam is done unless you ask. You meet the team and see the office.
Does the hand signal really work?
Yes. Raise your hand and treatment stops immediately.
Does insurance cover sedation?
Some plans cover it when it is clinically justified. We check your coverage first.
Can I talk to someone before booking?
Yes. A phone consultation is available with no obligation.
Do you offer sedation for kids?
Case by case for older children, when it is clinically appropriate. We prefer behaviour guidance first.