What to Know About Sedation for Orthodontic Surgery

Orthodontic surgery is a key part of treatment for patients with complex bite issues, jaw misalignment, or impacted teeth. While it’s often necessary for long-term oral health and improved function, the thought of undergoing oral surgery can be intimidating—especially for patients with dental anxiety. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, Ontario, we offer sedation options for orthodontic surgery to ensure patients remain calm, comfortable, and pain-free during their procedure.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what orthodontic surgery involves, how sedation plays a critical role, and what you should expect before, during, and after the procedure.

What Is Orthodontic Surgery?

Orthodontic surgery refers to any surgical procedure that supports or enhances orthodontic treatment, particularly in cases where braces alone aren’t enough. Common types include:

Exposure of impacted teeth (like canines that haven’t emerged)

Surgical assistance for tooth movement, such as anchoring devices

Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) to correct structural imbalances

Frenectomy to remove excess tissue restricting movement

Minor gum or bone surgery to aid in realignment

These procedures are often performed in coordination with an orthodontist and may require local anesthesia, sedation, or both.

Why Sedation Is Recommended for Orthodontic Surgery

Surgical procedures in the dental chair can be stressful even for the most cooperative patients. Sedation dentistry provides both physical comfort and emotional relief, especially when:

Procedures are lengthy or complex

Patients experience moderate to severe dental anxiety

There’s a history of trauma associated with dental visits

The patient has difficulty staying still for extended periods

There are strong gag reflexes or sensory sensitivities

Sedation helps ensure the procedure is safe, smooth, and stress-free—for both patient and provider.

Sedation Options for Orthodontic Surgery

At McLevin Dental, we offer several types of sedation based on your needs, the complexity of your surgery, and your level of dental fear:

1. Oral Sedation

Taken as a pill before the procedure

Helps you feel drowsy and deeply relaxed

You remain awake but less aware of the surroundings

Ideal for patients with moderate anxiety

Requires someone to escort you to and from the appointment

2. IV Sedation

Delivered intravenously and adjusted throughout the procedure

Offers a deeper level of conscious sedation

Minimizes memory of the surgery

Allows longer or more complex procedures to be completed comfortably

You’ll need post-op supervision and a ride home

3. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Inhaled through a small mask during the procedure

Reduces anxiety and raises your pain threshold

Wears off quickly, often allowing same-day return to normal activities

Most suitable for shorter, less invasive orthodontic procedures

What to Expect Before Surgery with Sedation

Prior to your appointment, we’ll conduct a thorough review of your:

Medical and dental history

Allergies or past reactions to sedation or anesthesia

Current medications

Anxiety level and previous dental experiences

You’ll receive clear instructions on how to prepare, including:

When to stop eating and drinking before the appointment (for oral or IV sedation)

What to wear and bring on the day of surgery

Who should accompany you to and from the clinic

We’re here to answer all your questions so you feel informed and in control.

During the Procedure

Once you’re sedated and fully comfortable, the surgery will begin. Depending on the type of procedure, your oral surgeon may:

Make incisions in the gum or bone to expose teeth or prepare the jaw

Place orthodontic devices or anchors

Remove soft tissue or adjust bone structure as needed

Throughout the procedure:

You will feel no pain

You may remain aware, but you’ll be relaxed and anxiety-free

We monitor your vitals continuously to ensure safety

After the Procedure: What to Expect

Following surgery with sedation:

You’ll be monitored as the sedation wears off

You may feel groggy or drowsy for several hours (oral and IV sedation)

Post-op instructions will be provided, including care tips and medications

Swelling and mild discomfort are normal and manageable with ice and prescribed medications

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor healing and progress

Most patients are surprised at how smooth the experience is—and how sedation helped eliminate the fear they once associated with surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation During Orthodontic Surgery?

Sedation is an excellent option for:

Teens and adults undergoing complex orthodontic procedures

Patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety

Individuals with special needs or sensory sensitivities

Patients who have previously postponed treatment due to fear

Anyone who prefers a calmer, more controlled surgical experience

Our team works with you to determine the best sedation method for your needs, ensuring your comfort, safety, and confidence throughout your care.

Let McLevin Dental Support You—Before, During, and After Surgery

Orthodontic surgery is an important step in achieving a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. But it doesn’t have to be a source of fear. With advanced sedation options and a caring, patient-centered team, we make sure you feel supported from consultation to recovery.