Sedation Dentistry
Fear and anxiety about dental treatments is very common, and at The Paddington Dental Surgery, we understand. That’s why we offer a range of sedation and sleep dentistry options to help you feel calm and relaxed throughout your treatment. For more complex procedures, our team is accredited to provide full sedation using general anaesthetics at a nearby day surgery.
With help from our compassionate team, you can reduce your fears and experience an anxiety-free – even pleasant – visit to your dentist in Sydney!
Schedule a Consultation
Learn more about our gentle, patient-first approach. To book your consultation, contact The Paddington Dental Surgery today.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of carefully administered medication to encourage patients to feel calm, comfortable, and free from anxiety during dental treatment. Dental anxiety can cause patients to avoid going to the dentist, ultimately increasing their chances of developing severe problems with their teeth and gums. Thankfully, however, sedation dentistry strategies can help even those with severe dental anxiety receive the care they need – whether they’re interested in dental implants, porcelain veneers, or even a personalised full mouth reconstruction.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
All forms of sedation dentistry can be used safely when performed by a skilled provider on an eligible patient. For your safety, we will carefully review your medical history and ensure you have the best-qualified team around you. For procedures that require IV sedation or general anaesthesia, a qualified anaesthetist will be present throughout the entire process.
While sedation dentistry is generally safe and effective, each method comes with potential side effects that patients should be aware of. These possible complications include lingering drowsiness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and (if an IV is placed) bruising.* During your consultation, our team will describe any possible side effects in more detail.

How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
The cost of sedation dentistry can vary depending on several factors, including the type of sedation used, the complexity of the procedure, and the duration of the treatment. Because every patient’s needs and treatment plans are unique, it’s important to consult with your dentist for a detailed cost estimate based on your specific requirements. At The Paddington Dental Surgery, we’re happy to discuss pricing and help you choose the most suitable and cost-effective sedation option for your care.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions
Would you like to learn more about your sedation options? Our skilled dentists have provided answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about sedation dentistry. If you have a question not addressed here, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable team today.
What is the difference between sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry?
The main difference between sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry lies in your level of consciousness during treatment. “Sedation dentistry” refers to a range of techniques designed to reduce fear and anxiety while keeping you relaxed yet awake. These may include oral conscious sedation or happy gas, both of which allow you to remain responsive but deeply at ease. Sleep dentistry, on the other hand, involves deeper sedation achieved through intravenous (IV) medication or general anaesthesia, where you may enter a twilight state or full unconsciousness.
Can any dentist perform sedation?
Many dentists use happy gas to calm patients that are nervous about treatment; however, for more advanced sedation techniques (such as oral conscious, IV, or general anaesthesia), additional training is required. Rest assured that our team is extensively experienced in all of these strategies.
Which sedation technique is right for me?
Every patient’s needs are unique. During your initial consultation, we will discuss your concerns and your level of anxiety to determine which method is ideal for you. Additionally, we will evaluate your medical history, consider the type of treatment you’ll be receiving, and weigh other factors to guide your decision. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities, and we will work with you to find a solution that makes your dental experience as pleasant as possible.
Never let fear of the dentist keep you from receiving vital dental work! At The Paddington Dental Surgery, we can help you improve both the appearance and health of your teeth while giving you the most comfortable, pain-free treatment possible. For more information on our sedation dentistry options or if you’d like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.



