Bite adjustment procedures play a vital role in resolving jaw pain, headaches, tooth wear, and chewing discomfort. But for many patients, the idea of undergoing any dental correctionespecially when it involves grinding or reshaping teethcan provoke anxiety and hesitation. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, Ontario, we offer sedation dentistry for bite adjustment procedures to ensure our patients experience not only precision and safety, but also peace of mind and physical comfort.
In this blog, well explain what bite adjustment involves, why it can cause fear for some patients, and how sedation helps make the entire process calm, smooth, and stress-free.
What Is a Bite Adjustment Procedure?
Bite adjustment, also called occlusal adjustment, is a dental treatment designed to correct misaligned bites where the teeth dont meet properly when the jaw closes. The goal is to create even, harmonious contact between the teeth to prevent:
Jaw joint strain (TMJ dysfunction)
Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Uneven wear or fractures on teeth
Chronic headaches or facial tension
Difficulty chewing or speaking
Dentists may perform bite adjustments using tools that gently reshape high spots on the biting surfaces of teeth. Sometimes, splints or orthodontic devices are also used as part of a broader bite correction plan.
Why Bite Adjustment Can Trigger Anxiety
While bite correction is often non-invasive and relatively quick, it can still be emotionally challenging for some patients due to:
Fear of drills or grinding tools
Concern about irreversible changes to the teeth
Worry over pain or sensitivity during the procedure
Lack of control when the dentist works on the bite
Previous negative experiences with dental treatments
Because the bite involves critical jaw mechanics, patients may also feel nervous about the potential for discomfort during or after the procedureeven if it is minimal.
When Sedation May Be Recommended
At McLevin Dental, we carefully assess each patients anxiety level, sensitivity, and treatment complexity before recommending sedation. We may suggest dental sedation for bite adjustments if you:
Experience moderate to severe dental fear
Have a low tolerance for sound, vibration, or jaw strain
Need multiple teeth adjusted in one session
Tend to gag or react strongly to tools in your mouth
Have muscle tension or TMJ symptoms that make long procedures uncomfortable
Prefer a deeply relaxed state for any dental work
Our goal is to ensure you feel in control, comfortable, and confident every step of the way.
Types of Sedation We Use for Bite Adjustment Procedures
Depending on your needs, we may offer the following sedation options:
1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Inhaled through a nose mask
Induces a calm, floaty feeling without putting you to sleep
Wears off quicklymost patients can drive themselves home
Ideal for mild anxiety or minor adjustments
2. Oral Sedation
A prescribed pill taken before the appointment
Promotes deep relaxation and reduces memory of the procedure
Youll remain conscious but less aware of the environment
Youll need someone to drive you to and from the clinic
3. IV Sedation
Administered through a vein for a stronger calming effect
Used for longer or more complex bite correction treatments
Allows us to control the sedation level throughout the procedure
Best suited for severe dental phobia or muscle/joint-related discomfort
Benefits of Sedation During Bite Adjustment
Sedation dentistry does more than manage fearit improves outcomes by:
Allowing full muscle relaxation, making jaw assessment more accurate
Reducing movement, which helps us perform precise adjustments
Minimizing discomfort, especially for patients with inflamed joints or sensitive teeth
Shortening the appointment duration, as procedures go more smoothly
Turning a high-stress procedure into a manageable one, increasing the likelihood of long-term follow-up care
Patients who choose sedation often describe their bite adjustment as easy and not nearly as bad as expected.
What to Expect Before and After Sedation
Before your appointment:
Well review your full medical history
Youll receive specific instructions about eating, drinking, and medication use
A trusted adult will need to accompany you if oral or IV sedation is used
After your appointment:
You may feel groggy or sleepy for a few hours
Youll receive care instructions, especially if temporary soreness is expected
Follow-ups may be scheduled to evaluate bite balance and comfort
Your recovery should be smooth, with most patients resuming normal activities the next day.
Gentle, Supportive Care Every Step of the Way
At McLevin Dental, we know that even technically simple procedures like bite adjustments can feel overwhelming when youve had difficult past experiences or struggle with dental fear. Thats why we offer personalized sedation options, clear communication, and a calm clinical environment designed to support both your emotional and physical wellbeing.