Sedation & Anxiety Care
Fear of the dentist is real, common, and nothing to be embarrassed about. At SAVOY we offer a full range of anxiety care, from a warm, unhurried approach for mild nerves, to conscious sedation and dentistry under general anaesthesia for patients (children or adults) who genuinely can’t face treatment any other way. Many of our nervous patients have gone years avoiding the dentist; we help them get out of that loop.
What to expect
We start by talking, not treating. You’ll tell us what scares you (sounds, smells, past experience, needles, gagging) and we plan around it. Where sedation is appropriate, we explain exactly what to expect, who’s in the room, the safety steps, and what you’ll feel (and won’t). For GA cases, treatment is done in a fully equipped facility with a specialist anaesthetist.
Is it right for you?
- Adults who haven’t been to a dentist in years because of fear
- Children with significant treatment needs or severe anxiety
- Patients with a strong gag reflex, dental phobia or past trauma
- Complex treatment plans best completed in fewer, longer visits under sedation
The process
Calm conversation
We listen first and build the plan around what makes you (or your child) anxious.
Choose the right level
From a relaxed, unhurried visit, to conscious sedation, to full general anaesthesia, matched to need.
Treatment day
For sedation or GA, you arrive prepared per simple instructions; we look after you from check-in to home.
Recovery & follow-up
A gentle wake-up, time to recover, a clear aftercare plan and a follow-up visit to check everything settled well.
Aftercare
After sedation or GA you’ll need someone to drive you home and rest for the day. We send you home with a written care plan and check in the next day. Most patients feel completely normal within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Is sedation safe?
Yes, when it’s done by trained professionals in the right setting, with proper monitoring. We never compromise on safety: GA work is done in a fully equipped facility with a specialist anaesthetist.
Will I be unconscious?
Conscious sedation: relaxed and drowsy but responsive. General anaesthesia: fully asleep, with a specialist anaesthetist looking after you throughout.
Can my child have this?
Yes, paediatric sedation and GA are some of the most valuable services we offer. They turn an impossible appointment into a non-event for an anxious child.
How long will I be out of action?
For conscious sedation, rest for the day. For GA, you’ll be tired the day of treatment and back to normal the day after.
Do you accept medical aids?
Yes — we accept all medical aids. We'll explain any costs and what your plan covers before treatment begins, so there are no surprises.