Cosmetic and restorative dental procedures like crowns, bridges, and veneers can dramatically improve your smile, function, and confidence. But for many patientsespecially those with dental anxietythe idea of sitting through these treatments feels overwhelming. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, we offer sedation dentistry as a safe, supportive option to help patients feel calm, comfortable, and fully in control throughout their smile restoration journey.
In this blog, well explain why sedation can be useful during crown, bridge, and veneer appointments, what types of sedation are available, and how we ensure your experience is both relaxing and successful.
Why Sedation May Be Helpful for These Procedures
Crowns, bridges, and veneers are some of the most common restorative and cosmetic treatments. While theyre generally non-invasive compared to surgeries, they still require:
Multiple steps and longer chair time
Precision work involving dental impressions and tooth preparation
Local anesthesia and the use of drills or reshaping instruments
Temporary restorations while permanent ones are being fabricated
For patients with dental anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or difficulty tolerating long appointments, sedation can transform these visits from stressful to smooth.
Sedation may be especially helpful if you:
Feel anxious or fearful about dental work
Struggle with numbness or drilling sensations
Have a strong gag reflex during impressions or prep work
Need multiple restorations done in one session
Want a more relaxed, streamlined experience
Sedation Options for Crowns, Bridges, and Veneers
At McLevin Dental, we tailor sedation options to your comfort level, medical history, and procedure type. For these types of restorations, most patients benefit from one of the following:
1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Light sedation delivered through a mask
Takes effect within minutes and wears off quickly
Reduces anxiety while allowing you to remain fully awake and responsive
Ideal for patients with mild anxiety or those needing short procedures
Safe to use even when driving yourself home afterward
2. Oral Sedation
Taken as a pill (typically a benzodiazepine) an hour before the procedure
Induces a deeper level of relaxationmany patients feel drowsy or lightly asleep
You remain conscious but may not remember much of the visit
Great for longer appointments or moderate anxiety
Requires an escort to and from the clinic
3. IV Sedation (in select cases)
Delivered through a vein for fast, adjustable sedation
Deeper sedation for those with strong dental phobia or needing extensive work
Often used when multiple crowns or veneers are placed in one visit
Constant monitoring by trained professionals for safety and control
May be recommended for full smile makeovers
Benefits of Using Sedation for These Procedures
Using sedation for crowns, bridges, and veneers isnt just about easing fearit also supports better outcomes. With sedation, patients are:
More relaxed, allowing for precise, uninterrupted work
Less likely to experience fatigue during longer appointments
Able to tolerate multiple procedures in fewer visits
Less reactive to discomfort from impressions, sounds, or instruments
Better positioned for a positive, confidence-building dental experience
Ultimately, sedation can help restore not only your smile but also your trust in dental care.
What to Expect Before and After Sedation
Before your sedation appointment, well walk you through everything you need to know:
Detailed medical screening and health history review
Clear instructions about fasting, medication, and transportation (if needed)
A full explanation of what the procedure involves and how sedation will be used
After the visit, youll receive:
Post-treatment instructions for comfort and care
Information about what to expect as sedation wears off
Support from our team to answer any questions about your recovery or next steps
We aim to make every stage of the process feel calm, clear, and controlled.
Safe, Personalized Sedation You Can Trust
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we are fully equipped to deliver safe and personalized sedation for patients undergoing cosmetic or restorative procedures. Our team has experience helping individuals with varying levels of anxiety, health conditions, and emotional needs. Whether you’re getting one crown or a complete smile makeover, your comfort is our priority.