frequently asked questions

Sedation Dentistry FAQ

Real answers to the questions patients ask most about sedation dentistry, from easing anxiety to staying safe in the chair. Dr. Hesham Sherghin and the Sleep Dentists team, based within Village Walk Family Dental in London, Ontario, are here to help you feel informed and at ease before your visit.

IV Sedation

What is IV sedation and how deep does it go?
IV sedation delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, allowing us to adjust your level of relaxation in real time. Most patients drift into a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state and remember little to nothing of the procedure.

Throughout treatment, Dr. Sherghin monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels using dedicated monitoring equipment, alongside continuous observation from trained staff.

IV sedation is often recommended for patients with significant dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, complex procedures, or several appointments’ worth of work being completed in one visit.

Most patients feel groggy for a few hours afterward. You’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you, and it’s best to plan a quiet rest of the day with no work, driving, or major decisions.

General Anesthesia

When is general anesthesia recommended?
General anesthesia is typically reserved for extensive procedures, patients with significant medical or behavioral considerations, or those who need to be completely unconscious to complete treatment comfortably and safely.
Safety is the top priority. Dr. Sherghin follows strict monitoring and screening protocols, and candidacy is carefully assessed based on your health history before any general anesthesia is recommended.
No. General anesthesia puts you completely unconscious, so you won’t feel, hear, or remember the procedure at all.

You’ll need a full day to rest, with a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you. Most patients feel back to normal within 24 hours, though grogginess can linger a bit longer for some.

Safety, Anxiety & Monitoring

How do you decide which sedation option is right for me?
Dr. Sherghin reviews your medical history, anxiety level, the complexity of your treatment, and your personal comfort goals to recommend the option that fits you best. This is discussed in detail before any sedation is scheduled.
Every sedation appointment includes continuous monitoring of vital signs, dedicated safety equipment, and a team trained specifically in sedation protocols, so you’re cared for at every stage of your visit.
Many patients with medical conditions can safely receive sedation with the right precautions. Dr. Sherghin reviews your full medical history and may consult with your physician when needed to confirm the safest approach for you.

You’re not alone, and it’s one of the most common reasons patients choose sedation. We take time to explain each step, and never rush your comfort.

Office, Process & Technology

What technology do you use to make treatment more comfortable?
Our office uses digital imaging and modern diagnostic tools to plan your treatment accurately and efficiently, which often means shorter appointments and fewer surprises.
Your first visit is a conversation. Dr. Sherghin will discuss your dental history, your anxiety or comfort concerns, and walk you through which sedation option best fits your needs before any treatment is scheduled.
Preparation depends on the sedation type. Generally, you’ll receive written instructions on eating, drinking, medications, and arranging a ride home, and our team will walk you through everything ahead of time.
Coverage varies by provider and plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and discuss payment options so cost doesn’t stand between you and comfortable care.

You’ll rest in our office until you’re ready to leave, then head home with a caregiver to rest for the remainder of the day. We’ll send you home with clear aftercare instructions.