Understanding Your Sedation Levels Before Treatment

For many patients, dental anxiety makes routine or complex procedures feel overwhelming. That’s why sedation dentistry has become an essential part of modern, patient-centered care. However, not all sedation is the same—and understanding the different levels before your appointment can help you feel more confident, informed, and in control. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, we believe that knowing what to expect is key to reducing fear and building trust.

In this blog, we’ll explain the different types and levels of sedation used in dentistry, who they’re best suited for, and what to discuss with your dentist before any sedated procedure.

Why Understanding Sedation Matters

Sedation can ease physical discomfort, reduce anxiety, and make it easier for patients to complete necessary dental work. But when patients aren’t sure what kind of sedation they’re receiving—or what it involves—they may experience added fear, uncertainty, or even hesitation to proceed.

Understanding your sedation level gives you:

A clearer sense of how awake or aware you’ll be

Insight into how much support you’ll need after treatment

Realistic expectations for how the appointment will feel

Greater comfort and control before and during care

The 4 Main Levels of Sedation in Dentistry

At McLevin Dental, we offer multiple sedation options tailored to your specific needs, anxiety level, and the complexity of your procedure.

1. Minimal Sedation (Anxiolysis)

What it is: You’re fully awake but deeply relaxed

Delivery method: Usually nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or a low dose oral sedative

What you’ll feel: Calm, less aware of time, but able to respond normally

Ideal for: Mild anxiety, cleanings, fillings, or patients new to sedation dentistry

Aftercare: You may be able to drive yourself home if nitrous oxide is used

2. Moderate Sedation (Conscious Sedation)

What it is: You’re drowsy and may drift in and out of light sleep, but still responsive

Delivery method: Oral sedatives or IV medication

What you’ll feel: Less aware of your surroundings, less memory of the procedure

Ideal for: Moderate anxiety, longer procedures, or patients with past dental trauma

Aftercare: You’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours

3. Deep Sedation

What it is: You’re mostly unconscious but can be awakened with stimulation

Delivery method: IV sedation, administered and monitored by trained professionals

What you’ll feel: Likely no memory of the procedure; unaware of time or sensations

Ideal for: Severe anxiety, surgical procedures, or those with strong gag reflexes

Aftercare: Requires full recovery time and close monitoring after the procedure

4. General Anesthesia

What it is: You are completely unconscious, with no awareness or memory of the procedure

Delivery method: IV or inhaled medications in a hospital or specialized setting

What you’ll feel: Nothing—this is used only in rare cases requiring hospital-based dentistry

Ideal for: Complex surgeries, special needs patients, or cases where safety requires complete unconsciousness

Aftercare: Extended recovery time and professional supervision

Note: McLevin Dental does not routinely use general anesthesia. Most patients benefit from moderate or deep sedation in our safe, office-based setting.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Sedation

To ensure a smooth, stress-free experience, it’s important to have a detailed conversation with your dentist about:

What level of sedation is right for me?

What are the risks and side effects?

How should I prepare for my appointment? (e.g., fasting, medications)

What should I expect during recovery?

Will I need someone to accompany me?

Being informed about your options helps you make decisions that support both your comfort and your safety.

Sedation Isn’t Just for Surgery

Many patients assume sedation is only necessary for major procedures. But in reality, we use sedation dentistry at McLevin Dental for:

Routine cleanings for anxious patients

Multiple fillings in one visit

Deep cleanings for gum disease

Wisdom tooth extractions or tooth removal

Patients with strong gag reflexes or difficulty sitting still

Anyone who has avoided dental care due to fear

Sedation helps turn a dreaded appointment into something manageable—and even peaceful.

Your Comfort, Your Choice

At McLevin Dental Clinic, we believe that every patient deserves to feel safe, heard, and comfortable. That’s why we walk you through all your options and never push sedation unless it’s truly in your best interest. We match the level of sedation to your needs—not the other way around.