Whether it’s the whirr of dental equipment, the bright surgical lights or sitting still for an extended period of time with your mouth open wide, we understand that for some a trip to the dentist can be a worrying experience. As dental healthcare providers we have a duty of care to all our patients. This is why we offer a range of sedation and sleep dentistry options. The purpose of these is to minimise any anxiety you may feel during a procedure and make you as comfortable as possible.
Studies show that at least 5% of the population suffers from a severe phobia of the dentist. Even if you are part of the 95% that isn’t intensely afraid you may still not be fond of every visit you make to the dentist. If you dread visiting the dentist then sleep dentistry may be a suitable option for you.
Sleep dentistry uses sedative medications to eliminate your awareness of sights, sounds, smells, taste and pain caused by instruments and drilling. This enables the dentist to perform the general, cosmetic or advanced procedure while you are calm and relaxed
At About Smiles we offer two methods of sleep dentistry: absorption or intravenous. These will be administered by our experienced and qualified professionals. Throughout the procedure a specialised doctor will be present to continuously monitor you.
Absorption
This method involves using a relaxing oral medication or inhalation of nitrous oxide (colloquially known as “happy gas”). Nitrous oxide provides a short-term and low level of sedation that is mostly designed to relax you and lower your anxiety during less invasive procedures. The sedation of oral medications will depend on the dose and desired outcome. Low doses will make you feel drowsy and relaxed, while larger doses can make you groggy and puts you into a pre-sleep “twilight” state.
Intravenous
This fast acting method involves injecting small quantities of medication into a vein in your arm. This causes a much deeper, “dream-like” level of sedation that can be continually monitored and adjusted according to your needs.
Get in Touch
At About Smiles we endeavour to make our practice patient friendly, with comfortable surroundings and staff that are trained to treat fearful patients. If you require a sedation option we will provide qualified advice on the most appropriate course of action. So book today on (02) 9415 3555 Chatswood, (02) 9313 6388 Zetland or (02) 8488 9994 Eastgardens.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
