Sedation Dentistry in Peterborough, ON
We want you and your family to feel calm and relaxed during your treatment. That’s why we offer gentle sedation options for adults and children.
Gentle, Relaxing Dental Care for Your Whole Family
At Cornerstone Family Dentistry, we know that dental visits can be stressful, whether it's your first time or you're bringing your child in. That’s why we offer sedation options like laughing gas and oral sedation to help you feel relaxed and comfortable. We're here to make sure you feel at ease every step of the way.

A Relaxing Experience
Sedation dentistry helps you feel calm and relaxed during your dental visit, whether you're having a routine check-up or a more involved procedure. You remain fully awake, but you won’t feel stressed or anxious.
Painless Procedures
Laughing gas and oral sedation make dental treatments more comfortable by reducing pain and discomfort, allowing you to go through your procedure with ease and minimal worry.


Safe for Adults and Children
Sedation dentistry isn’t just for adults. We offer sedation options for children too, helping them feel calm and relaxed while they receive the care they need. It’s an excellent solution for making their dental visits a positive experience from the start.
What Sedation Dentistry Treats
Sedation dentistry is perfect for anyone who experiences dental anxiety, has trouble sitting still during treatments, or requires more extensive dental work. It is also great for patients with sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex. Whether you’re undergoing a routine filling, a root canal, or a longer procedure, sedation dentistry can make your visit much more comfortable.
The Ideal Candidate for Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who:
- Experience dental anxiety or fear of dental procedures
- Need extensive dental work done
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Are children who need extra comfort during dental visits
- Are adults who need extra help staying relaxed during their treatment
If you or your child experience dental anxiety, sedation options can make visits easier and less stressful, ensuring you receive the care you need without worry.
What to Expect with Sedation Dentistry
The process for sedation dentistry at Cornerstone Family Dentistry is straightforward and designed to put you at ease. Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Consultation
Your dentist will discuss your sedation options and recommend the best one based on your specific needs.
Dental Treatment
Once the sedation takes effect, your dentist will begin your treatment. You’ll remain awake, but you won’t feel stressed, anxious, or in pain.
Administration of Sedation
- Laughing Gas: A small mask will be placed over your nose, and you’ll breathe in the gas, which will make you feel calm and relaxed in just a few minutes.
- Oral Sedation: You'll take the medication orally in office 30 minutes to an hour before the procedure and our expert team will monitor the vitals through out the procedure.
Recovery
- If you’ve had laughing gas, you’ll feel back to normal almost immediately after the mask is removed.
- With oral sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home, as the effects can last a bit longer, and stay you the remainder of the day, children can not go to school or daycare.
Say Hello to Peterborough’s Smile Experts
Our team shares a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating healthy, confident smiles. We'll treat you like family, delivering the highest standard of care in a warm, welcoming environment.
Modern Care for Better Outcomes
Experience the difference of modern dentistry with our state-of-the-art CEREC technology, offering same-day crowns and restorations. No more temporary crowns or return visits – get your perfect smile in a single appointment.
Same-Day Emergency Care
Life doesn't wait for dental emergencies, and neither do we. Our dedicated team provides same-day emergency appointments, ensuring you get prompt relief when you need it most.
Laughing Gas vs. Oral Sedation
While both laughing gas and oral sedation are great options to make your visit more comfortable, each works a little differently.

Laughing Gas (Inhaled Sedation)
- A mild sedative inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose.
- You remain awake and responsive but feel relaxed.
- Takes effect quickly, with no lingering effects once the mask is removed.
- Ideal for patients needing mild sedation for routine procedures.
Oral Sedation (Moderate Sedation)
- A prescribed pill taken about an hour before your appointment.
- You remain awake but deeply relaxed, feeling less aware of the procedure.
- The effects can last longer, so you’ll need a ride home afterward.
- Ideal for patients with more severe anxiety or for longer procedures.
Experience the Cornerstone Difference
For thirty years, we've been proud to serve Peterborough families across generations. It's been our joy to care for children from their first appointment and now welcome their own little ones. Our team is here to care for all of your family’s dental needs, and we look forward to serving you!

Patient Comfort First
Enjoy Netflix during your treatment, soothing music, and amenities designed to make every visit stress-free.
Family-Friendly Scheduling
We understand busy family schedules and offer extended hours and family block booking options.


Multilingual Care
Our diverse team provides care in multiple languages, ensuring clear communication for all patients.
Future Prevention
Once the immediate crisis is resolved, we discuss preventive measures and any necessary follow-up care to prevent future emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Is sedation dentistry safe for children?
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe for children when administered by a trained professional. Laughing gas is commonly used for young patients to help them feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental visits.
- How does laughing gas work?
Laughing gas helps you relax and feel calm during your procedure. It is inhaled through a mask placed over your nose, and the effects begin within minutes. It’s a great option for mild to moderate anxiety and wears off quickly after treatment.
- Will I be unconscious during sedation?
No, both laughing gas and oral sedation allow you to remain awake and aware during your treatment. You’ll feel relaxed and calm, but you will be able to respond to your dentist.
- How long do the effects of sedation last?
Laughing gas wears off quickly, and you’ll feel back to normal shortly after the mask is removed. Oral sedation can last a few hours, so you may need someone to drive you home afterward.
- Can I drive myself home after sedation?
If laughing gas was used, you can drive yourself home once the effects wear off. For oral sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home as the sedative can leave you feeling drowsy for a few hours.
- Can children receive emergency dental care?
Absolutely. We provide emergency care for patients of all ages. Our team is experienced in treating children during dental emergencies and takes special care to ensure they feel safe and comfortable throughout treatment.
- How do I know if sedation dentistry is right for me?
If you experience dental anxiety, have a strong gag reflex, or need extensive dental work, sedation dentistry can help you feel more relaxed during your visit. Your dentist will help determine the best sedation option for your specific needs.
- Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Coverage for sedation dentistry varies by insurance plan. Contact your insurance provider or our office for more details on your coverage.
- Will I remember the procedure after sedation?
With laughing gas, you may remember parts of the procedure, but you’ll feel relaxed and at ease throughout. With oral sedation, many patients report little to no memory of the procedure.
Learn More About Sedation Dentistry
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