Cost of treatment

Anxiety about cost, combined with the stress of pain or infection, can often be more stressful than the surgery itself.
Payment options and eligibility for financial assistance are explained under Fees & Payment.
You will receive a written estimate of all costs, which will be discussed before you decide on any treatment.

There are three main methods to make surgery a relaxing experience. We will discuss all options with you so that together we can decide what is most appropriate.

1. Local Anaesthesia (LA)

Minor procedures, such as biopsies, removal of a single tooth, or short procedures, can often be carried out using local anaesthetic.
The area of surgery is anaesthetised with an injection of anaesthetic (we use Articaine, a long-acting dental anaesthetic).
Benefit: You can leave immediately after the procedure and return to normal activities.

2. Intravenous (IV) Sedation

IV sedation is the most popular method, used by the majority of our patients.
Medication is delivered directly into a vein, usually in the arm, taking effect in about 30 seconds. You will feel relaxed and sleepy.
You remain conscious and able to respond, making it very safe.
Local anaesthetic is also administered, though most patients do not notice it.
You will have minimal or no recall of the procedure. A common comment is: “Have we started yet?” Patients often describe it as if the procedure took just a few minutes.

How IV sedation works:

The sedative produces a relaxed state, allowing treatment to be carried out more comfortably.
One effect is amnesia, which can block most or all memory of the procedure.
Breathing rate may decrease due to deep relaxation, which is closely monitored with oxygen and heart rate monitors. Supplemental oxygen is provided via a nasal cannula if needed.
IV sedation is very safe, and the sedative can be reversed if necessary. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Our team is experienced, performing IV sedation 4–8 times per day, with dedicated registered nurses supporting you from admission until discharge.
All procedures follow NZ Dental Council, NZ Dental Association, and NZ Society for Sedation in Dentistry guidelines, and staff undergo continual training in sedation management.

3. General Anaesthetic (GA)

General anaesthetic means you are completely asleep, similar to surgery for tonsils, grommets, appendectomy, or other major operations.
A specialist anaesthetist manages your sleep whilst your surgeon performs your treatment, supported by their assistants and your nurse.
GA may be recommended due to technical difficulty, young age, or high anxiety.
Recovery from GA and IV sedation is similar, and you will stay in recovery until your dedicated recovery nurse determines you are ready to go home.

We will discuss these options with you in detail at your consultation to determine the best approach for your comfort and safety.