Dental anxiety is actually very common and something we come across frequently in the dental profession.

Dental anxiety is actually very common and something we come across frequently in the dental profession. The condition, also known as dental phobia, commonly presents in older patients who may have had a negative experience when they were children that they have not been able to overcome in adulthood. While we always endeavour to walk every patient through the treatment process step by step, sometimes this is not enough to calm our most nervous patients.
At Drouin Dental, we offer a variety of sedation options for our most nervous patients, which can be safely administered at our clinic or in hospital for more severe cases. We administer three types of sedation for nervous patients – happy gas, IV sedation or general anaesthetic.
Happy Gas, or laughing gas involves inhalation of colourless, odourless N2O gas through a nose piece prior to treatment. Happy Gas has no effect on memory, is a non-irritant and reduces emotional centres in the brain that produce anxiety – which is ideal for nervous patients presenting for dental treatment.
IV Sedation is administered by a visiting anaesthetist for treatments such as wisdom teeth removal, implants, soft tissue or bone grafts, or a large number of fillings in one session. The patient is put to sleep in the dental chair, recovery time is quicker than general anaesthetic, and you will have no memory at all of your treatment once completed.
General Anaesthetic is administered at the local hospital day surgery unit only by an Anaesthetist supported by nursing staff. This option renders the patient completely unconscious for the entire duration of dental treatment.
Clear answers to common questions about dental implants, treatment options, and what to expect.
It kills pain while producing a pleasurable feeling and it is extremely safe. It takes effect very rapidly and wears off completely after about two or three minutes.
If you don’t want to remember the procedure, then IV sedation is usually the sedation method of choice for healthy patients. The sedation acts very rapidly, and the level of sedation can be tailored to meet the individual’s needs. Benzodiazepines produce amnesia – you won’t remember the procedure even though you will be awake.
Gentle dental care focused on growing smiles, comfort, and building healthy habits.
Comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, supporting long-term oral health for families.
Custom-made dentures designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence after tooth loss.
Prompt dental care for pain, injury, or urgent concerns when treatment cannot wait.
Focused care to prevent and manage gum disease, supporting healthy gums and teeth.
Protective mouthguards designed to prevent dental injuries and reduce wear on teeth.
Routine care aimed at preventing dental problems and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Treatments designed to improve tooth alignment and bite function for healthier smiles.
Treatment to remove infection, relieve pain, and preserve the natural tooth structure.
Dental solutions that support better sleep by addressing oral-related sleep concerns.
Custom oral appliances to help reduce snoring and manage sleep apnoea symptoms.
Assessment and treatment to protect teeth and relieve jaw tension caused by grinding.
Careful assessment and removal of wisdom teeth when they cause pain or crowding.
Gentle dental care focused on growing smiles, comfort, and building healthy habits.
Comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, supporting long-term oral health for families.
Custom-made dentures designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence after tooth loss.
Prompt dental care for pain, injury, or urgent concerns when treatment cannot wait.
Focused care to prevent and manage gum disease, supporting healthy gums and teeth.
Protective mouthguards designed to prevent dental injuries and reduce wear on teeth.
Routine care aimed at preventing dental problems and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Treatments designed to improve tooth alignment and bite function for healthier smiles.
Treatment to remove infection, relieve pain, and preserve the natural tooth structure.
Dental solutions that support better sleep by addressing oral-related sleep concerns.
Custom oral appliances to help reduce snoring and manage sleep apnoea symptoms.
Assessment and treatment to protect teeth and relieve jaw tension caused by grinding.
Careful assessment and removal of wisdom teeth when they cause pain or crowding.
Patient experiences that reflect our commitment to gentle, modern dental care.


“I was nervous at first, but the team made me feel completely comfortable. The results speak for themselves — I couldn’t be happier with my smile.”


“From the first consultation to the final result, everything was explained clearly and handled with care. I finally feel confident smiling again.”


“Professional, gentle, and truly caring. The transformation exceeded my expectations, and I’m so glad I chose this clinic.”

Book your appointment today and take the next step toward confident, comfortable dental care with our friendly team.
(03) 5625 1718
Monday to Friday 8am-6pm