Sedation Dentistry
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is almost exactly what it sounds like: dentistry performed while you are somewhat awake, but in minimal pain and not very aware of what’s going on. Most people say they feel ‘dream-like’ during their sedation and have no memory of their dental procedure. If going to the dentist makes you very anxious, it might be an option for you.
WHEN MIGHT DENTAL SEDATION BE RECOMMENDED FOR ME?
- If you’re very anxious about your dental procedure
- If you’re undergoing a more painful dental surgery (such as wisdom teeth removal or having dental implants placed)
- If you have a strong gag reflex
- If you’re undergoing several dental procedures at the same time
- If you often don’t respond well to local anaesthesia
YOU MIGHT NOT BE SUITABLE IF:
- You have a history of substance abuse
- You are pregnant (especially if you are in the first trimester)
- You have respiratory conditions (such as sleep apnoea)
CAN I BE SEDATED DURING MY DENTAL PROCEDURE?
At Ashfield Dental Centre, the answer is yes! Most dentists can provide light sedation, such as Penthrox (green whistle) or prescribed pills. At Ashfield Dental Centre, we also host several dentists who have undergone specialised training to provide stronger sedation options. If you would like to be sedated during your visit, please speak to our doctors before your appointment.
The type of sedation you can get depends on a number of factors, including your overall health and the type of dental procedure you need.
CAN I DRIVE HOME AFTER SEDATION DENTISTRY?
In most cases, the answer is no. You can only drive home after having laughing gas, no other kind of sedation. This is because laughing gas wears off quickly compared to other sedation methods, and will usually be completely out of your body within an hour.
Deep sedation and general anaesthesia – like the kinds you might use if you undergo a major dental surgery – can take a day or longer to leave your body completely. You should not drive a car for at least 24 hours after having any type of general anaesthesia.
DON’T LET ANXIETY HOLD BACK YOUR ORAL HEALTH
If discomfort is keeping you from getting the dental care you need, talk to one of our friendly staff members to book an appointment. Our dentists can assess your suitability and the best sedation method for you, so we can get your oral health back in gear together.
Frequently asked questions
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It works by calming the nervous system, reducing anxiety, and making the dental experience more comfortable. Depending on the level of sedation, patients can be fully awake but relaxed, drowsy, or in a state of deep sleep.
At Ashfield Dental Centre, the following types of sedation are available:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Inhaled through a mask, it helps patients relax while remaining conscious and able to respond.
- Oral Sedation: Taken as a pill before the procedure, it makes patients drowsy but awake and relaxed.
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation: Administered through a vein, it provides a deeper level of sedation, making patients less aware of the procedure.
- General Anaesthesia: Used in more complex cases, it puts patients in a deep sleep, so they are completely unconscious during the procedure.
Sedation dentistry is generally safe for most patients, but it may not be suitable for everyone. A thorough medical history review and evaluation by an Ashfield dentist are necessary to determine if a patient is a good candidate for sedation. Certain medical conditions, allergies, or medications may affect the suitability of sedation. Ashfield Dental Centre ensures that sedation is administered by trained professionals, and patients are closely monitored throughout the procedure.
Benefits of sedation dentistry include:
- Reduced anxiety and fear during dental procedures
- Increased comfort and relaxation
- Ability to undergo multiple or complex procedures in one visit
- Minimisation of pain and discomfort
- Improved cooperation and ease for patients with strong gag reflexes or difficulty sitting still
- Enhanced overall dental experience, leading to better oral health outcomes
Sedation dentistry at Ashfield Dental Centre helps with dental anxiety by inducing a state of calm and relaxation and reduces feelings of fear and panic. Sedation dentistry allows patients to undergo necessary procedures without stress, making the dental experience more pleasant and less traumatic. By reducing stress and anxiety, sedation dentistry also encourages regular dental visits and timely treatments, preventing more severe dental issues.
Good candidates for sedation dentistry include:
- Patients with severe dental anxiety or phobia
- Individuals with a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth
- Patients requiring extensive or multiple dental procedures
- Individuals with a strong gag reflex
- Patients with special needs or difficulty sitting still for long periods
- Those who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
Ashfield Dental Centre provides a relaxing and stress-free experience through sedation dentistry by:
- Offering a range of sedation options tailored to individual needs and preferences
- Conducting thorough consultations to determine the most appropriate sedation method
- Ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment
- Using modern equipment and techniques to enhance patient comfort
- Providing detailed information and addressing any concerns before the procedure
- Offering compassionate care and support throughout the entire dental experience, from consultation to recovery
With sedation dentistry, Ashfield Dental Centre helps patients overcome their fears, ensuring they receive the necessary dental care in a comfortable and stress-free manner.