Sleep Dentistry

Fear and anxiety related to going to see the dentist and dental procedures is not something that just affects children – many adults experience this too. Fortunately, we can offer several sedation options to our patients, one of those being sleep dentistry.
 

What is sleep dentistry

Sleep dentistry, also known as IV Sedation, allows you to feel comfortable and relaxed, which can help you overcome anxiety related to going to the dentist. It can also help you if you have a strong gag reflex and reduces the discomfort of holding your mouth open during lengthy dental procedures.

Sleep dentistry differs from other surgical procedures, because unlike general anaesthetic (GA) you are not unconscious, but are in a relaxed, dream-like state. This means that unlike general anaesthetic, you can retain the ability to breathe on your own and follow simple instructions given by the dentist.
 

When can it be used?

It is suitable for minor treatments such as fillings to more lengthy and complex treatments like wisdom teeth extractions, dental implant surgery, and root canal therapy. Your dentist can perform just about any dental procedure while you comfortably relax in the chair. A range of treatments can usually be completed in one visit, which also makes the process very efficient and time friendly for many patients.
 

Whats the procedure like?

Before / during procedure
During the procedure, you should feel no pain or experience any anxiety. The qualified doctor who will be handling your IV Sedation will stay by your side throughout the entire procedure to ensure your comfort and safety. They will also be constantly monitoring your blood pressure and oxygen levels.

Post procedure
Afterward, when you ‘wake up,’ you won’t have any memory of what happened during the procedure. Essentially, you will feel like you’ve just woken from a deep sleep. This is very beneficial for patients who have experienced previous dental trauma as it helps to reframe dental visits, which can make future visits easier for them.
 

Deciding sleep dentistry

The first step toward sleep dentistry is to talk with your treating dentist. They will then be able to assess not only your dental health but also your general health as well to see if you are a candidate for IV sedation. They will also evaluate your treatment needs with the desired outcomes, which will allow them to decide if IV sedation is the best option or if another sedation option such as inhalation or oral sedation would be better suited.