Just like your family doctor, your dentist may work with dental specialists to provide you with the best care possible.
Learn more »Prevent problems early. Your child's first dental visit should occur by age one or within six months of when you see the first tooth.
Learn more »Dental care during pregnancy is not only safe, regular dental visits support your health and your baby's.
Learn more »Most dental disease is preventable—starting with these five steps to take at home.
Learn more »Clenching or grinding your teeth (often at night) may be the reason and can also cause damage to your teeth and jaw.
Learn more »Your dentist may recommend a number of treatment options to replace missing teeth, such as a denture.
Learn more »Dentists are trained in minimal sedation; however, those offering moderate sedation to general anesthesia must have the appropriate qualifications and be registered with the BC College of Oral Health Professionals.
Dentists may work with other health care professionals to provide sedation and anesthesia such as an anesthesiologist, a registered nurse as well as specifically qualified dental team members. The dentist and the facility where the sedation is being administered must meet rigorous requirements in order to be accredited to deliver moderate sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia.
Training determines what level of sedation a dentist or certified specialist can provide. Competency is based on education through the undergraduate dental program, postgraduate training and continuing professional education. Supervised clinical practice experience is also required for advanced levels of sedation.
Speak to your dentist about their qualifications before treatment, as well as the qualifications of their staff and any other health care professionals they work with (i.e. anesthesiologists, registered nurses). Contact the BC College of Oral Health Professionals to confirm the dentist can provide sedation or general anesthesia in their office.
Review the complete FAQ on Sedation and General Anesthesia.