Nitrous oxide: the relaxing gas
An oxygen + nitrous oxide mix, breathed via nasal mask. You stay conscious and cooperative but fully relaxed; time perception shifts. Reversible in five minutes, no major contraindication. Ideal for moderate phobia.
IV conscious sedation
An anesthetist administers a light sedative by drip (typically low-dose midazolam + propofol). You are rousable but drowsy, and often retain no memory. Used for long surgeries or severe phobia. About €300-450 extra.
General anesthesia
Full sleep in an operating room with an anesthetist-reanimator. Reserved for heavy procedures (bi-maxillary All-on-4, multiple extractions, extreme gag reflex). Cost: €600-900. Requires a pre-op workup (ECG, blood test).
Who chooses what?
Eighty percent of care happens under local anesthesia. Nitrous oxide covers most phobic patients. IV sedation and GA are offered after consultation with the anesthetist — not systematically, but always available on request.
What to know beforehand
IV sedation and GA require a companion (no driving for 12 hours) and 6-hour fasting. You stay 2-3 hours in recovery. Return flight possible the next day for light surgery, 48-72 hours for major ones.
If dental fear has made you postpone care, know that three sedation levels exist in Tunisia and no treatment is off-limits. Bring it up at the remote consultation — it's planned for, not shameful.