Making Your Dental Visit More Comfortable
Sleep dentistry (also known as sedation dentistry) is an option for patients who feel anxious about visiting the dentist. By using sedation, your dentist can help you fully relax, which makes procedures more manageable. It is a very popular choice for patients who want a pain-free dental treatment or need sedation for complex dental procedures. Sleep dentistry and sedation options vary practice to practice. You can contact us to ask about the sedation options we offer.
What Is Sleep Dentistry / Sedation?
Understanding Sleep Dentistry / Sedation in Dental Care
Sleep dentistry is the catch all phrase used to refer to the use of sedation techniques to help patients remain calm during dental treatments.
Different Levels of Sleep Dentistry / Sedation
Sedation levels in sleep dentistry include:
- Minimal sedation: Patients remain awake but feel relaxed.
- Moderate sedation (conscious sedation): Patients may slur words and have limited memory of the procedure.
- Deep sedation: Patients are on the edge of consciousness but can be awakened if necessary.
- General anaesthesia: Patients are fully unconscious during the procedure.
Types of Sleep Dentistry / Sedation
Oral Sleep Dentistry / Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a pill before the appointment. It helps patients feel drowsy yet awake, making it mostly suitable for anyone experiencing moderate anxiety about dental visits.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It helps patients feel relaxed while still remaining conscious and the effects wear off quickly, which allows patients to resume their daily activities faster.
IV Sleep Dentistry / Sedation
IV sedation is administered directly into the bloodstream and offers a deeper level of sedation. This type of sedation is generally used for more invasive procedures and allows for more precise control over the level of anaesthia throughout the treatment. Please contact us to discuss the sedation options we offer.
General Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is rarely used for routine dental procedures but may be recommended for complex oral surgeries or for patients with severe dental anxiety. Undergoing dental treatments with full general anaesthesia means the patient is fully unconscious and will have no memory of the procedure. General anaesthesia is not typically used in standard dental practice.
Who Should Consider Sleep Dentistry / Sedation?
Sleep Dentistry / Sedation for Dental Anxiety
Sleep dentistry is particularly beneficial for patients with dental phobia, a strong gag reflex or previous traumatic experiences at the dentist or in life.
Complex or Lengthy Procedures
For treatments that are lengthy or complicated such as root canals or wisdom teeth extraction, sleep dentistry can help make the experience more comfortable for patients.
The Benefits of Sedation
Reduced Anxiety and Fear
Sedation options help patients feel calm and relaxed, significantly reducing anxiety associated with dental visits. This can be helpful for anyone who has been avoiding the dentist out of fear or anxiety.
Pain Management
Sleep dentistry offers a pain-free dental treatment experience, minimising discomfort and helping patients to tolerate procedures more comfortably and reduce over-all dental procedure stress.
Faster Treatment Completion
With sedation, dentists can often perform multiple procedures in one session, as the patient is able to stay relaxed and still for an extended period. If you’re interested in asking us about what sedation options we offer you can contact us here.
Sleep Dentistry / Sedation Safety
Is Sedation Safe?
Sedation for dental procedures are generally safe when administered by professionals. Patient’s vital signs are closely monitored throughout the procedure.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
While sedation is safe, patients may experience known side effects like drowsiness, nausea or dizziness. It’s essential to follow all the instructions provided by your dentist to minimise any recovery risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental Care with Sleep Dentistry / Sedation
Schedule a consultation with us today so we can help you or your child have a more comfortable dental experience.