For patients experiencing anxiety, fear, or sensitivity during dental procedures, sedation dentistry offers an effective way to receive care comfortably and calmly. However, before any form of sedation is administered, patients must go through a sedation consent processa critical step that ensures safety, transparency, and mutual understanding between the patient and the dental team.
At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, Ontario, we believe that informed consent is not just a legal formalityits part of delivering respectful, compassionate care. In this blog, we walk you through what the sedation consent process involves, why it matters, and how it protects your rights and wellbeing throughout your dental experience.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Its especially useful for:
Individuals with dental anxiety or phobia
Patients with low pain tolerance or strong gag reflexes
Those undergoing long or complex procedures
Children or adults with special healthcare needs
Sedation options at McLevin Dental include:
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
Oral sedation (pill form)
IV sedation (intravenous medication for deeper sedation)
Each type of sedation requires a specific level of monitoring, preparation, and informed consent.
Why Is Consent Important?
Informed consent ensures that you:
Understand what type of sedation is being recommended
Are aware of the risks, benefits, and alternatives
Have had the opportunity to ask questions and receive clear answers
Voluntarily agree to the procedure without pressure or misunderstanding
Consent is about more than signing a formits about knowing whats being done to your body and feeling confident in your decision.
What Happens During the Sedation Consent Process?
Heres what you can expect before receiving sedation at McLevin Dental:
1. Medical History Review
Before offering any type of sedation, we gather a complete health history, including:
Current medications and supplements
Existing medical conditions (especially heart, lung, liver, or neurological disorders)
History of sedation or anesthesia reactions
Allergies or sensitivities
Use of alcohol, tobacco, or recreational substances
This information helps us determine if sedation is safe and which method is most appropriate.
2. Explanation of Sedation Type and Effects
Once the appropriate method is selected, we explain:
How the sedation will be administered (inhaled, oral, or IV)
What youll feel during the procedure (relaxed, drowsy, or unaware)
How long the effects last
Whether youll need an escort to take you home afterward
Possible side effects, like drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, or delayed reaction time
We ensure you fully understand what to expect from the sedation experience.
3. Discussion of Risks and Alternatives
No medical procedure is risk-free. We clearly explain the potential risks, such as:
Temporary dizziness, nausea, or confusion
Allergic reactions (though rare)
Interaction with existing medications
Need for post-treatment monitoring or supervision
We also discuss non-sedation alternatives such as distraction techniques, behavioral strategies, or scheduling breaks.
4. Opportunity to Ask Questions
Youll have the chance to:
Clarify anything you’re unsure about
Ask how sedation might interact with other conditions
Discuss concerns about memory loss, side effects, or control during the procedure
Request written information to review at home (if needed)
No question is too smallour team is here to make sure you feel informed and empowered.
5. Signing the Sedation Consent Form
Once youve received all information and your questions are answered:
Youll be asked to sign a sedation consent form
This form confirms you understand and agree to the sedation plan
For minors or patients with guardians, legal consent must be obtained from a parent or authorized caregiver
This document is part of your dental record and ensures that your treatment is both clinically sound and ethically responsible.
After Consent: Preparing for Sedation
Depending on the sedation type, well give you instructions to follow before your appointment:
Avoid eating or drinking for a set number of hours (for oral or IV sedation)
Arrange transportation if youll be groggy afterward
Take pre-medications if prescribed
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid heavy makeup or jewelry
Well also review aftercare guidelines so you know what to expect post-procedure and when to call us if anything feels unusual.
We Make Consent Clear, Calm, and Caring
At McLevin Dental, the sedation consent process is never rushed. We recognize that patients who need sedation are often vulnerable and anxiousso we take extra time to ensure clarity, safety, and comfort from start to finish.
By fully informing you about your options and responsibilities, we empower you to make choices that reflect your health needs, comfort level, and personal values.