Sedation Dentistry Preston | Oral, IV & Sleep Dentistry Options

Q: Is sedation covered by health insurance?

Coverage varies by policy and the reason for sedation. Checking directly with your health fund is recommended.

Sedation Dentistry

A Calmer Way to Get Dental Treatment Done

Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people put off treatment. At The Smile Designer in South Preston, we offer a range of sedation options — from simple oral sedation through to arranging IV sedation or general anaesthesia — so patients across Melbourne’s Inner North can get the care they need in comfort.

Join us for a Consultation at The Smile Designer Dental Studio.

Your Sedation Options

The right option depends on your level of anxiety and the treatment you’re having. Here’s how it works at The Smile Designer.

Available for All Treatments

Oral Sedation

A medication taken before your appointment to help you feel calm and relaxed. You remain awake and able to communicate throughout, but with reduced anxiety. This is our standard in-house sedation option, available for most general dental treatments.

All-on-4 Patients Only

In-House Visiting Sedationist

For patients undergoing All-on-4 dental implant treatment, we can arrange for an accredited sedationist to come to our South Preston practice and administer sedation on-site — meaning no need to travel to a separate facility for this specific procedure.

External Referral

General Anaesthesia (Off-Site)

For patients wanting to be fully asleep for general dental treatments outside of All-on-4 implant work, we work with a trusted external referral network of general anaesthesia providers, and will help coordinate your care with them.

Is Sedation Right for You?

Sedation May Help If You…

Feel anxious or fearful about visiting the dentist

Have had a difficult past dental experience

Have a strong gag reflex or find it hard to sit still

Are having a longer or more complex procedure done

Our team will discuss your medical history and suitability for sedation during your consultation, and help you decide which pathway is right for you.

18+

Years Serving Melbourne’s Inner North

5,000+

Happy Patients

FAQs

Sedation Dentistry Questions, Answered

Can I be put to sleep for any dental treatment at your practice?

Our in-house visiting sedationist is available specifically for patients undergoing All-on-4 dental implant treatment. For general anaesthesia with other dental treatments, we refer patients to our trusted external network and help coordinate that care.

What is oral sedation like?

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment. You’ll feel calm and relaxed, and remain awake and able to communicate throughout, though you may have limited memory of the appointment afterward.

Will I need someone to drive me home?

Yes, if you’ve had oral sedation, IV sedation, or general anaesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the remainder of the day, as it’s not safe to drive or operate machinery afterward.

How much does sedation dentistry cost?

Cost depends on the type of sedation and the treatment being performed. We’ll go through a full quote with you at your consultation before proceeding.

Is sedation covered by health insurance?

Coverage varies by policy and the reason for sedation. We recommend checking directly with your health fund. See our health insurance page for more general detail.

Where is your practice located?

We’re located at 118-120 High Street, South Preston, on the border of Thornbury, close to Bell Street, and serve patients across Preston, Northcote, Brunswick, Coburg, and Reservoir.