— SEDATION DENTISTRY — TORONTO
IV Sedation
Dentistry in Toronto
Conscious IV sedation at Innova Dental on Wellesley Street West in downtown Toronto — for surgical treatment, longer appointments, and patients who would simply prefer to be comfortable throughout. Administered and monitored by Dr. Onur Cavus, the same dentist who plans and performs your treatment.
Authorised IV Sedation Provider in Ontario
Dr. Cavus is authorised to administer conscious intravenous sedation by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario
IV
Sedation administered at Innova Dental
20+
Years of clinical experience including implant dentistry
— ABOUT IV SEDATION
Why Sedation,
and When
Conscious IV sedation dentistry allows patients to undergo dental procedures in a deeply relaxed, amnesic state — administered intravenously by a dentist with specific regulatory authorisation. It is not general anaesthesia, but most patients have little or no recollection of the treatment.
Most dental treatment is carried out comfortably with local anaesthetic alone, and for routine care that is all that is needed. Sedation exists for the situations where it is not the whole answer.
Three of those account for most of the sedation carried out at Innova Dental. The first is surgical complexity — full arch implant placement, multiple extractions, impacted wisdom teeth, bone grafting. These involve a longer period in the chair and more instrumentation than a routine filling, and sedation makes that straightforward for the patient while allowing the procedure to proceed without interruption.
The second is appointment length. Treatment that would otherwise be spread across several visits over months can often be combined into one longer session under sedation. Fewer appointments, fewer recovery periods, and a course of treatment that finishes sooner.
The third is comfort preference. Some patients manage routine dentistry without difficulty but find the prospect of surgery daunting, or have a gag reflex that makes longer procedures hard to tolerate. Sedation removes that from the experience entirely — most patients have no memory of the procedure afterwards.
Sedation is a clinical tool, not a last resort. It is chosen at the treatment planning stage alongside everything else about how a procedure will be carried out.
When Sedation Is Usually Considered
Surgical extraction of impacted wisdom teeth
Implant placement, particularly multiple implants or full arch
Bone grafting, sinus lift, and other longer surgical procedures
Several dental procedures combined into a single extended appointment
Mild dental anxiety that makes surgical treatment feel daunting
A strong gag reflex that makes longer treatment difficult to tolerate
Patients who would simply prefer not to be aware of the procedure
IV sedation is not general anaesthesia. You remain conscious and able to respond to simple instructions throughout, and protective reflexes are maintained. That is what makes this level of sedation appropriate in a dental office rather than a hospital.
Dr. Cavus is authorised by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario to administer intravenous sedation in a dental office setting.
RCDSO Authorisation — What It Means
In Ontario, administering IV sedation in a dental office requires specific authorisation from the RCDSO. To obtain this, a dentist must complete accredited training, pass a clinical examination, and maintain ongoing requirements set by the College. The authorisation is facility-specific — it covers the sedation being administered at Innova Dental by Dr. Cavus, on the equipment and protocols approved for that setting.
— IV Sedation at Innova Dental
What Sets IV Sedation
Apart From Other Options
IV sedation provides a relaxation and amnestic level of sedation in a general dental office setting. Unlike nitrous oxide or oral sedation, it is administered intravenously and titrated in real time — allowing the level of sedation to be adjusted throughout the procedure based on patient response.
Rapid Onset
IV sedation takes effect within seconds of administration — faster than any oral or inhalation route. There is no waiting period and no uncertainty about whether the sedative has been absorbed. The level of sedation is established before treatment begins.
Precise Titration
Because sedation is administered intravenously, the dose can be adjusted in real time throughout the procedure. If a patient becomes more or less responsive than intended, the level of sedation is modified immediately — something oral or inhalation routes cannot achieve.
Amnesia
The medications used for IV sedation produce anterograde amnesia — most patients have little or no memory of the procedure. For patients whose anxiety is rooted in anticipatory fear of what they will experience, this is the most therapeutically effective aspect of IV sedation.
Extended Treatment Possible
IV sedation allows extended appointments — multiple procedures, complex surgical cases, or full-mouth rehabilitation — to be completed in a single session. Patients who would otherwise need four or five separate appointments can often complete treatment in one.
Continuous Monitoring
Pulse oximetry, blood pressure, and patient responsiveness are monitored continuously throughout. Dr. Cavus administers and monitors the sedation directly — the dental procedure and the sedation management are not split between two clinicians.
— SEDATION TYPES
Choosing the Right
Level of Sedation
Innova Dental offers four options for comfort during treatment. The right one depends on the procedure, its expected length, your medical history, and your own preference. All four include local anaesthetic for pain control.
01
IV Sedation
Intravenous sedation administered and monitored by Dr. Cavus, an RCDSO-authorised IV sedation provider. The deepest level of sedation available in a general dental office. Produces a deeply relaxed, amnesic state — most patients have no recollection of treatment. Available for surgical and general dental procedures where clinically appropriate and subject to pre-sedation assessment.
Administered intravenously — rapid, precise, adjustable
Most patients have no memory of the procedure
Suitable for anxious patients, complex surgery, and lengthy treatment
Continuous monitoring throughout
Responsible adult escort required — you cannot drive afterward
Fasting required before the appointment
02
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide — inhaled through a small nasal mask — produces a light, relaxed state while you remain fully conscious and communicative. It is the lightest sedation option available at Innova Dental and is suitable for patients with mild to moderate anxiety who do not require or prefer deeper sedation.
Inhaled through a nasal mask — no injection required for sedation itself
Onset and offset are rapid — effects wear off within minutes of stopping
You remain conscious and able to communicate throughout
No escort required — you can drive after the effects have fully worn off
Suitable for mild to moderate anxiety
Not suitable for patients with certain respiratory conditions
03
Oral Sedation
A prescribed oral sedative — typically a benzodiazepine — taken before the appointment to reduce anxiety. You remain conscious throughout. Oral sedation is available at Innova Dental but is not the primary promoted option, as the level of sedation achieved is variable and less predictable than IV or inhalation routes. It may be appropriate in specific clinical circumstances where IV or nitrous oxide are not suitable.
Taken orally before the appointment
Effect is variable — cannot be adjusted once administered
Escort required
Available where clinically appropriate — discuss at consultation
04
Local Anaesthetic Only
Standard dental anaesthesia delivered by injection to numb the treatment area. No sedation is involved — you are fully awake and alert throughout. Appropriate for patients without significant anxiety who require only pain control. All procedures at Innova Dental include local anaesthetic regardless of which sedation option is chosen.
Complete numbness of the treatment area
No sedation — you are fully conscious throughout
No escort required, no fasting required
Standard for routine and many surgical procedures
Can be combined with nitrous oxide if mild anxiety is present
— CANDIDACY
Is IV Sedation
Right for You?
IV sedation is appropriate for most healthy adults with dental anxiety, complex treatment needs, or both. A medical history review is required before sedation is approved — certain conditions and medications affect candidacy.
IV sedation is suitable for the majority of adult patients. The medical history review at the consultation identifies any contraindications and determines whether any modifications to the standard sedation protocol are needed.
Patients with well-controlled systemic conditions — including controlled hypertension, controlled diabetes, and stable cardiac conditions — are often appropriate candidates. The consultation is the point at which this is assessed accurately.
Good Candidates
Healthy adults with dental anxiety of any severity
Patients requiring complex oral surgery — implants, extractions, bone grafting
Patients wanting to complete multiple procedures in one appointment
Strong gag reflex that prevents comfortable treatment
Patients with well-controlled systemic conditions
Requires Assessment
Patients on multiple medications — interactions must be reviewed
Known allergy or sensitivity to benzodiazepines or related agents
Patients with respiratory conditions
Pregnancy
BMI over 35 — assessed on a case-by-case basis
Uncontrolled systemic disease
Practical Requirements for IV Sedation
A responsible adult must accompany you to the appointment and take you home — you cannot use public transport alone or drive
Fasting is required — typically no food or drink (except water) for 8 hours before the appointment
You must not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours after IV sedation
Loose, comfortable clothing with accessible veins at the forearm or hand is recommended
All medications you take should be disclosed at the consultation — some require dose adjustment or temporary cessation
— WHAT TO EXPECT
From Consultation
to Recovery
IV sedation at Innova Dental follows a structured process: a dedicated pre-sedation consultation, fasting and preparation, the sedation appointment itself, a monitored recovery period before discharge, and a 24-hour post-sedation restriction period.
The sedation consultation and the treatment appointment are always separate. This ensures your medical history is reviewed thoroughly, the sedation plan is established in advance, and all pre-operative instructions are understood before the day of treatment.
01 Pre-Sedation Consultation
A dedicated appointment to review your medical history, current medications, and previous anaesthetic or sedation experience. The dental treatment plan is confirmed. Written pre-operative instructions are provided including fasting requirements and escort arrangements. Any questions about the sedation process are answered at this appointment.
02 Day of Treatment — Arrival
You arrive with your escort at the agreed time. Confirmation that fasting instructions have been followed and that your escort is present. Baseline vital signs are recorded — blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. An intravenous cannula is placed, typically in the forearm or back of the hand.
03 Sedation Induction
The sedation medication is administered slowly through the cannula. Onset is rapid — most patients feel effects within seconds and reach the intended level of sedation within a few minutes. Local anaesthetic is administered once the level of sedation is established. You will feel relaxed, drowsy, and comfortable.
04 Treatment
Dental treatment proceeds with you in a deeply relaxed state. Vital signs are monitored continuously. The sedation level is adjusted as needed throughout the procedure. You can respond to simple instructions but will have little or no awareness of what is happening. Most patients have no recollection of this phase.
05 Recovery & Discharge
Following treatment, you remain in the clinic until you are sufficiently recovered for safe discharge. This typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. Discharge criteria include stable vital signs, ability to walk safely, and your escort being present. Written post-operative instructions are provided. You must not drive for 24 hours.
— PROCEDURES UNDER SEDATION
Any Treatment.
Comfortable.
Conscious IV sedation is available for any dental procedure performed at Innova Dental — from routine treatment to complex oral surgery. Patients who have avoided the dentist for years due to anxiety can complete a full course of necessary treatment in one or two sedation appointments in a deeply relaxed, comfortable state.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Simple and surgical extractions, including coronectomy for nerve-proximity cases. IV sedation is particularly recommended for surgical and impacted wisdom tooth cases.
Bone Grafting
Socket preservation, ridge augmentation, and block grafting procedures. Surgical duration and patient comfort make IV sedation highly appropriate for bone grafting cases.
Dental Implants
Implant placement, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and related surgical procedures. Complex implant cases benefit significantly from IV sedation, particularly where multiple implants are placed in a single session.
Multiple Extractions
Patients requiring several extractions can have all treatment completed in a single sedation appointment rather than across multiple visits under local anaesthetic alone.
All-on-X Full Arch
Full arch implant rehabilitation involving multiple extractions, bone preparation, and implant placement in a single appointment. IV sedation is standard for All-on-X procedures.
General & Prosthetic dentistry
Extensive dental treatments — multiple fillings, cleaning, crown preparations — performed under IV sedation.
— FAQ
IV Sedation
Questions
Questions specific to your medical history and treatment needs are best answered at a pre-sedation consultation, where your full clinical picture can be reviewed.
-
No. IV sedation produces a deeply relaxed, amnesic state — you remain conscious and can respond to simple instructions throughout. You are not unconscious and protective reflexes are maintained. The distinction matters clinically: this is conscious sedation, not general anaesthesia. Most patients, however, have little or no memory of the procedure.
-
IV sedation administered by an appropriately authorised and trained clinician in a properly equipped facility is a safe procedure for the vast majority of adult patients. At Innova Dental, Dr. Cavus holds RCDSO authorisation to administer IV sedation — this authorisation requires demonstrated competency, appropriate equipment, emergency protocols, and ongoing compliance with College requirements. Your medical history is reviewed in advance to identify any factors that would require protocol modification or make sedation inadvisable.
-
The standard fasting requirement is no food or drink except plain water for 8 hours before the appointment. Plain water is permitted up to 2 hours before. These requirements exist to reduce the risk of aspiration during sedation. Your specific fasting instructions will be confirmed at the pre-sedation consultation and in your written pre-operative instructions.
-
Most patients are sufficiently recovered for discharge within 30 to 60 minutes of the procedure ending. You will feel drowsy and may be unsteady on your feet for several hours. The full effects of the sedation medication typically resolve within 24 hours. During this period you must not drive, operate machinery, consume alcohol, or make important decisions. A responsible adult must be with you or available to you for the remainder of the day.
-
Yes — this is one of the significant advantages of IV sedation. Treatment that would otherwise require multiple appointments can often be completed in a single sedation session. Combining procedures reduces the total number of anaesthetic events, the total recovery burden, and the overall duration of a course of treatment. What is achievable in a single appointment depends on the nature and volume of treatment required and is confirmed at the planning stage.
-
Coverage for IV sedation varies significantly between dental insurance plans. Some plans include an anaesthesia or sedation benefit that covers part or all of the sedation fee when it is administered in conjunction with a covered surgical procedure. Others do not cover sedation at all. We recommend requesting a pre-determination of sedation benefits from your insurer before your appointment is scheduled.
-
General anaesthesia produces unconsciousness — protective reflexes are suppressed and airway management is required, which is why it is administered in a hospital setting by an anaesthesiologist. IV sedation produces a deep state of relaxation and amnesia, but consciousness and protective reflexes are maintained throughout. This is what makes IV sedation safe to administer in a dental office setting by an RCDSO-authorised dentist, without the infrastructure of a hospital operating room.
-
No. Anxiety is one reason patients choose sedation, but it is not the main one at Innova Dental. Sedation is used most often for surgical treatment and for longer appointments where several procedures are combined — situations where it is simply the more comfortable and more efficient way to carry out the work. Wanting to be comfortable is a sufficient reason on its own.
— BOOK A SEDATION CONSULTATION
Dental Treatment,
Comfortably and Calmly.
Book a pre-sedation consultation at Innova Dental. Dr. Cavus will review your medical history, discuss the conscious IV sedation plan, and answer any questions before your treatment appointment is scheduled.