Sedation Dentistry In Cape Town

Ensure Your Safety and Comfort During Dental Treatment

Dental anxiety can prevent you from achieving your ideal smile — anxiety and traumatic experiences can cause dental avoidance and adverse oral health. Discover our conscious sedation dentistry options for your procedure. Our approach combines advanced sedation techniques with a patient-centred environment, ensuring you remain comfortable and informed throughout your procedure.

We understand how stressful dental visits can feel. With over 42 years of expertise and 390+ five-star Google reviews, our highly trained team at OptiSmile has successfully helped countless anxious patients receive comfortable, stress-free dental care.

Don’t take our word for it. See what our clients say.

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Dakota R.
Very helpful and caring staff. Dr. Ruan was great at not only taking care of my teeth, but also educating me on everything going on. He actually helped me find out I had sleep apnea, which has been a game-changer for me. Would highly recommend Opti Smile
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Alex L.
This is probably the best dental clinic in the world. My partner has already had a new smile, which she is completely satisfied with. She inspired me to also have my teeth beautified by Doctor Cara. The result is absolutely brilliant. The whole team, from reception to the assistants, are extremely friendly and you feel that you are in very good hands here. The clinic has the most modern infrastructure.
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Paul B.
I am not great with dentists but Optismile is another level , extraordinarily professional, sensitive and a spectacular experience
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Cherie H.
Can’t recommend Optismile enough. Friendly kind and world class service.
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Marisa T.
The most advanced, efficient and considerate dentistry I have experienced. It is expensive, however I can understand why. Thank you Ruan and OptiSmile
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dena de R.
The very best dental practice I've been to. The whole team is super friendly, professional and proficient. Absolutely recommend!
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Herman du T.
Just love the team at Optismile! Dr Yudelman - works magic and is the nicest guy too. Can highly recommend 👍🏻
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Nicolas Alejandro Cuesta B.
I am usually anxious about going to the dentist, but I still decided to get a dental cleaning, a check-up, and a bleaching treatment. At first, I didn’t fully understand why everything was necessary for the bleaching, even though the receptionist explained it to me.

Now that I’ve had the treatment, I have to say—it was the best experience I’ve ever had. Not only is the clinic stunning, but the professionalism and the way they treat you are outstanding. The dentist was with me for the entire three-hour session; he never left me alone. First, he explained everything he was going to do, step by step. He used equipment and techniques I had never seen before, not even in Switzerland or Germany.

The check-up was not just a quick look at my teeth—it was incredibly thorough. They took pictures, X-rays, and close-up scans. They explained everything in detail, going through each tooth one by one, showing me what was good and what needed attention. Their level of professionalism is truly remarkable.

The staff is super friendly and prepared for everything. The whole experience was incredible—highly professional, beautifully executed, and absolutely worth every penny. I would do it again without hesitation. Five stars aren’t enough to describe how amazing this place is. I would recommend it to everyone—just outstanding!
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Jonathan Z.
Five-star service represents exceptional, consistently flawless customer service that anticipates needs, exceeds expectations, and leaves a lasting positive impression. It's about going above and beyond to ensure customers feel valued and satisfied.

Nothing is truer from the moment you walk through the doors and are greeted by the amazing front desk staff and made to feel so welcome. The team at OptiSmile is nothing but professional, patient and a team of incredible and warming people.

Dr Cara is so professional and guided me throughout the whole process and procedure. Dr Cara uncovered other areas where attention was needed and plans were put together that made me leave with a big smile.

Thank you OptiSmile for the experience and for being an exceptional team.
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Wendy Y.
Best dental practice I have ever been to. Most thorough dental analysis ever. Will n ver go anywhere else after the thorough check up and analysis. Highly recommend
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Nicholas B.
The most amazing dentist experience from start to finish! Everyone is so friendly and helpful and the equipment technology is super high tech. Thanks!!
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Dominique L.
10 star service at OptiSmile! Can highly recommend 😊 Dr Harris is the best and the after care service is just incredible. They really take extra care of their patients and go above and beyond to make sure all is in order, receptionists and dentists included!
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Marguerite J.
Wonderful practice with incredibly knowledgeable staff. First time ever feeling safe at the dentist's office.
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Janelle _
The best experience I’ve had a dentist so far! Dr Cara was very kind and did the most exceptional job on my crown; and Dr Ruan did an amazing job on my root canal. His gentle, warm nature really put me at
ease. The experience was pain free, very
professional and it’s clear both doctors are very knowledgeable and skilled. The cost was worth the level of expertise and exceptional service. The hours these doctors work are very long and yet they have always given 100% at every appointment.
Appreciate them both immensely!
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David O.
I've been going to Optismile for many years, and at this point would trust nobody else with my teeth! I've never been anything but extremely happy with work done, and beyond that the team obviously really cares about their customers happiness.

On the admin side booking or changes are always smooth and friendly.
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Alan van der V.
I have had a lot of significant dental work done by a variety of dentists in the United States, Mexico and at OptiSmile. OptiSmile is clearly superior in every respect. With costs as they are in the United States, it is only slightly more expensive to fly to Cape Town and it is well worth it.
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Joseph N.
I've been a patient at OptiSmile for four years, and I couldn't be happier with my experience! The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and I truly appreciate that the dentist is always on time – no long waits here! The advanced technology they use makes procedures quick and pain-free, which is a game-changer. Dr. Ruan Scheepers is top-notch – professional, thorough, and genuinely cares about his patients' comfort and well-being. I highly recommend OptiSmile to anyone looking for exceptional dental care!
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Bronwyn K.
My kids and I had a wonderful experience during a check-up and clean with Dr Kiera, Busi and Melany. Their professionalism, knowledge, warmth and friendliness put us completely at ease. I highly recommend this superb team.
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Paula B.
Absolutely excellent ! Would highly recommend
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John K.
Excellent dentist!
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Kemi M.
I don’t usually leave reviews, but I had an amazing experience with my 4-year-old son. From reception to the consultation room, the staff was absolutely wonderful.

Definitely won my 5 star rating. Dr Keira was lovely,Professional and pleasant experience.
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Shanna C.
Dr Keira is amazing! She made me feel so comfortable. The practice is also amazing, newest technologies and beautifully clean.
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Carol H.
I highly recommend OptiSmile. Dr. Yudelman is absolutely the BEST! Very detailed, caring, friendly and go extra mile to help, make the client happy, absolutely a pleasant experience.

The service received, from reception, communication to dentistry and everything in between, is fantastic. Very happy with my new smile 😁

Regards
Carolina
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Maruschka P.
I had an outstanding experience with OptiSmile! The personal service I received from Verona and Dr. Clifford was truly exceptional. From start to finish, my Invisalign journey was far better than I could have ever expected. Their knowledge and expertise ensured that I had complete confidence in the process—there was never a moment of uncertainty.

The team at OptiSmile is incredibly professional, well-informed, and genuinely cares about their patients. I’ve already recommended them to friends and family and will continue to do so. Thank you, Dr. Clifford, Verona, and the entire OptiSmile team, for making this such a smooth and positive experience!
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Danielle S.
Dr. Clifford is amazing! I came from the states to do injection molded bonding. I also had my teeth cleaned and whitened. The whole team is friendly, the office is beautiful, and the result is better than I could have imagined. Thank you so much to Dr. Clifford and team 🙌🏼 Highly highly recommend
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Bettie C.
Pure magic. That is my experience Dr Clifford Yudelman and Siwe his assistant saving a most important tooth today. Without one moment of fearing the usual anxiety a visit to a dentist meant in my young days. None of the "what-ifs" that could happen during a 2 hour long reparation of a cracked tooth with ancient silver filling from long ago. None of the fear of what could happen should I not be able to swallow and saliva could smother me in the upside down position in a dentists chair! Not once did I experience that anxiety with Siwe sucking all my fear away. And then watching the artist/computer geek, Dr Clifford creating a new ceramic tooth, as if creating a 3D sculpture in photoshop! Then sending his design via internet to a machine that carves my new ceramic tooth as I watch it happening!
Thank you Team Clifford/Siwe for what is not the regular "dentist-fear but an experience of wonder at modern technology performed by Magicians.
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anika K.
The team at optismile has changed the way I look at dentistry. I use to fear going to the dentist, they make you feel so comfortable and welcomed.
They are not just your regular “reactive” dentist, a full assessment prior to your consult ensures a proactive approach to your dental health.
All the expertise you need in one place.
I now smile with confidence thanks to them!!
Friendly professional service.
I cannot recommend them enough.
The only thing I regret is not getting to them earlier.
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Stephanie F.
I could not recommend Optismile enough! The reception staff are always so friendly & helpful, the practice environment is so clean & beautiful with amazing views, and the dental experts are, in my opinion, absolutely world class! I switched to Optismile when I wasn't happy with what was supposed to be the end result of my Invisalign treatment with another provider... Dr Smeyatsky was phenomenal, and he immediately understood why I wasn't yet satisfied & made a plan for me. The final result was exactly what I had always envisioned! Upon his advice, I also had some composite bonding done on two of my teeth after my treatment, which elevated my smile even further, while still looking natural & not giving that "overly done" look. Optismile has given me so much confidence in my smile. I'm so happy I chose this practice & every year without fail when I visit home from the UK, I go back for oral hygiene & a dental check-up to maintain the smile I now have. Every visit continues to be a delight!
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Melanie S.
Hallo zusammen ,
Ich war im Dezember in Kapstadt im Urlaub als ich dummerweise über Nacht heftige Zahnschmerzen bekam. Die Praxis in Seapoint wurde mir von Freunden empfohlen und ich habe sofort einen Termin bekommen. Das ganze Team hat sich super um mich gekümmert und Dr. Ruan ist ein super einfühlsamer Arzt der sich viel Zeit nimmt und alles genau mit mir besprochen hat.
Auch nach der Behandlung wurde sich noch des Öfteren per WhatsApp nach meinem Wohlbefinden informiert.
Ich kann die Praxis nur empfehlen !!!
Liebes OptiSmile Team : nochmal vielen vielen Dank für eure schnelle Hilfe. Macht weiter so . Ihr seid einfach super !!
Liebe Grüße aus Deutschland. Melanie
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Max W.
Best dentist's in the world, bar none. Trust me.
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Marysia A.
Cozy and friendly environment with superb service. Melany, the hygienist was extremely personable and very gentle. Probably the best cleaning I have ever had.
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Andreas L.
I have been at many tooth doctors around the globe but the services especially Invisalign is unique in terms of quality, price and the human factor. Thank you 🙏
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Laure P.
I met Dr Clifford with the dream of having a beautiful smile that I wouldn't be ashamed anymore, as well as fixing few issues. Very quickly, within the first appointment, he had my trust. Despite being scared of not looking like me anymore, he and his team made sure that I was looked after during the few weeks leading to the big day. Now, after working on more than 8 teeth, doing the bonding, I have so happy and can't stop smiling!!! He gave me back my confidence and I also feel more confident that the issues I had, are now dealt with. All without damaging or removing any of my teeth. I am very grateful and can't recommend them all enough!!!!!
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Jasmine H.
The team at Optismile is always so warm and welcoming. The receptionists are rock stars and are always on the ball when it comes to scheduling appointments. The dentists and their assistants are also so friendly and make me feel right at home when I arrive. I highly reccomend them, their services are 10/10!
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ophir S.
Fantastic experience. The staff are excellent and very professional. I love my results!🙌
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Terri S.
I have never been more impressed with a dental practice in my life. Melanie, the hygienist was patient and kind, and even gave a massage to my jaw at the end!! (Major brownie points in my book as I have never experienced this at any other dental offices). Dr Clifford and his staff are excellent!! Thank you for the amazing experience!
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Bonny B.
The best everything, from making your first appointment right through to aftercare for your procedure. Highly recommend.
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Bonnie L.
OptiSmile is absolutely amazing! Professional, friendly, and incredibly skilled—they truly offer the full package. The team makes you feel welcome and comfortable from the moment you walk in. Their attention to detail and genuine care set them apart. Highly recommend for anyone looking for exceptional dental care!
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Charity H.
I highly recommend OptiSmile .The service received from the reception , communication to dentistry and everything is amazing.We had a very pleasant experience with Dr Ruana and her staff.My 7 year old daughter was very anxious about the appointment but Dr Ruana was very patient with her.Thanks to Lauren for spending a lot of time with my daughter trying to calm her down and thank you for the special gift.Thank you OptiSmile.
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Ray W.
One of the best dental practices I’ve ever visited! The staff are incredibly friendly and professional, and the practice is equipped with the latest technology. The stunning sea views is a bonus. Would highly recommend.
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Matt S.
For the first time in my life I have a smile to be proud of!

Working with OptiSmile over the past 7 months has been nothing short of incredible. The entire team is warm, welcoming and they take the time to make sure the plan they create is suited to your goals. In just 7 months I have gone from having chipped, yellow and misaligned teeth to a clean white smile!

A special thank you to both Dr Harris and Dr Cara. Dr Harris was responsible for getting my teeth into the correct positions and Dr Cara is an artist for what she has done to create my smile! I will be eternally grateful to both, and the entire team for what they have achieved.

If you are looking for a highly skilled and passionate team to help you get the smile you've always wanted, OptiSmile is the way to go.
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Keegan W.
Such a great place! Everyone that works there makes it such a pleasant experience! Dr Keira & Dr Clifford are geniuses and so professional in every aspect of what they do! Definitely the best place to go if you need any work done on your teeth! 🙂
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CHANTELLE S.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts
For giving Xander such a beutifull smile.

Today was his matricball and he was smiling like a celebrity.
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Brent Allan B.
OptiSmile offers a professional and modern environment with exceptional service from Melany and the team. The results from the in-chair tooth whitening were fantastic, and the friendly service combined with great value for money made for a wonderful experience. Highly recommend!
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Scott C.
Ruan and assistant Busi are a caring an competent team.
Thank you for everything you did to restore my smile.
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What is Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax during dental procedures. Our conscious sedation dentistry techniques enable you to remain responsive and fully communicate with your dentist. Even if you suffer from dentophobia or have a strong gag reflex, you can experience dental treatments without discomfort.

Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry

  • Patients with Dental Anxiety: Conscious sedation dentistry is effective at reducing stress, making treatment more manageable.
  • Individuals with a Strong Gag Reflex: Our sedation dentistry relaxes muscles your muscles, minimising discomfort and involuntary reflexes.
  • Those Undergoing Lengthy Procedures: Length procedures can be mentally taxing on you — conscious sedation dentistry minimises discomfort, allowing multiple treatments in one session.
  • Patients with Previous Traumatic Dental Experiences: These experiences impact our dental health, mainly through dental avoidance. ​​OptiSmile acknowledges this and helps you feel safe throughout your dental procedure.
  • Individuals with Special Needs: Our gentle sedation reduces overstimulation, ensuring a comfortable visit for special needs patients.
  • People with Difficulty Staying Still: Conscious sedation is particularly effective for paediatric dentistry or those with movement disorders to remain relaxed during treatment.
  • Patients Requiring Restorative Work: Conscious sedation ensures your comfort during cosmetic dental procedures like veneers or implants.

Three Simple Steps to Stress-Free Dental Care:

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01. Book Your Consultation

Schedule easily online or via WhatsApp.

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02. Receive a Tailored Sedation Plan

Schedule easily online or via WhatsApp.
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03. Relax During Your Procedure

Experience gentle, pain-free dental care and leave smiling confidently.
Without addressing your dental fears, you risk ongoing discomfort, worsening dental problems, and continued embarrassment about your smile. Don’t let anxiety steal your confidence or affect your overall health.

Preparing for Your Sedation Appointment

If you are opting for an oral sedative, take it about an hour before your appointment, preferably on an empty stomach. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home, as sedation may leave you feeling drowsy. Avoid alcohol before and after your appointment, and follow any fasting instructions provided by our team. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to help you stay relaxed during treatment. You should discuss any concerns with our team to tailor your conscious sedation dentistry plan prior to treatment.

The Sedation Treatment Process

After the initial consultation, you will either take an oral sedative or receive IV conscious sedation. You will remain under sedation during the procedure. Our gentle techniques ensure a pain-free experience.

A qualified anaesthetist monitors your vital signs, ensuring your safety. Our strict emergency protocols guarantee immediate response to any concerns. Most patients recover within 20 to 30 minutes post-treatment. It is essential to rest for the remainder of the day post-procedure, stay hydrated, and avoid operating heavy machinery or making important decisions. Your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery, and our team is available to answer any questions following your treatment.

Why Choose OptiSmile?

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Experienced Digital Dentists

Expert use of advanced technology for precise, comfortable care.
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Long-lasting Results

Ensuring fewer visits and durable smile transformations.
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Stress-Free Comfort

Gentle techniques and sedation options specifically tailored for anxious patients.
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Proactive Dental Health

Early detection to safeguard your smile and overall wellbeing.
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Transparent Pricing

No surprises, clear communication, and flexible payment options.

FAQs about Sedation Dentistry

Oral sedation involves taking a pill before your appointment, which gently relaxes you. IV sedation, administered by an anaesthetist, provides a deeper state of relaxation while still allowing you to communicate with the dental team.
Sedation dentistry incurs additional costs due to the required specialised equipment and professional expertise. OptiSmile gives you detailed pricing before undergoing any procedure.
Yes, combining multiple treatments into one session under conscious sedation dentistry can reduce the cost. Our transparent pricing means that you know what to expect.
Oral sedation typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours, and IV sedation is reversed before you leave the practice at the end of the treatment, but after effects may linger for up to 24 hours.
For oral sedation, you may need to avoid food for a few hours beforehand. For IV sedation, fasting for a longer period may be required. Our team will provide specific instructions based on your treatment plan.

If you experience severe dental anxiety, sedation can be used for routine procedures like teeth cleanings and dental inlays and overlays.

No, with conscious sedation, you remain awake but deeply relaxed. You will be able to respond to verbal cues from your dentist but may not remember much of the procedure afterwards.
Not at all. Sedation dentistry is designed specifically to keep you comfortable, calm, and pain-free throughout your entire procedure.

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