At Geelong West Dental, sleep dentistry is one of the core dental services that we offer. Sleep dentistry in Geelong can benefit patients with dental anxiety about upcoming dental procedures.
In this article, we discuss common facts about dental sedation to help patients make more informed decisions at their next dental visits.
Sedation And Multiple Dental Procedures
While dentists perform sleep dentistry for more complicated procedures (such as dental implants or wisdom teeth surgery), it is not the only application in dentistry. Dentists can use dental sedation to accommodate for general dentistry including routine scale and clean, fillings and cosmetic dentistry. If a patient suffers from dental fear, a strong gag reflex, or certain health conditions, sedation dentistry can be considered.
Different Forms Of Dental Sedation
Although general anaesthesia is a common form of dental sedation due to its use in many procedures including wisdom teeth extractions and implant placements, other forms of dental sedation are also available. However, the use of these sedatives is determined by a patient’s overall health and the level of sedation required for a dental procedure.
Laughing gas, intravenous sedation, and sedation via oral routes are other types of sedation used in dentistry.
How the above dental sedatives work for patients are as follows:
- Laughing gas – This involves introducing laughing gas via a nasal mask securely attached to the patient’s nose. The effect usually dissipates before the patient leaves the dental clinic. Laughing gas is ideal for patients who prefer to return to their daily routine as soon as possible after their dental appointment.
- Oral Sedation – This can more potent than laughing gas. It is administered orally before the dental procedure.
- IV Sedation – This can be more potent than either laughing gas and oral sedation and is delivered intravenously (through the vein).
Dental Sedation For Adults and Children
When it comes to dental sedation, you may be surprised to learn that children frequently have dental treatment done under sedation, as dental phobia is not uncommon among this age group.
Laughing gas is a common form of dental sedation used for children. General anaesthesia may be required if there is lack of cooperation when using laughing gas, or if a complex dental treatment plan is anticipated. A thorough assessment by the dentist will determine suitable forms of sedation for the patient.
Suitability of Dental Sedation
While dental sedation can be beneficial, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Patients who have complex medical conditions, are immunocompromised, or are pregnant/breastfeeding may need further medical assessment.
Your dentist will ask you about any medical conditions or medications you are currently taking before deciding whether sedation is appropriate for you.
Sleep Dentistry At Geelong West Dental
Consultation is required for further assessment. The contents in this post do not substitute for professional dental advice. All dental procedures contain certain risks and need to be discussed with our dentists before undertaking any treatment.
More information about sleep dentistry process, recovery, and risk assessments can be found at https://www.geelongwestdental.com.au/dental-fear/sleep-dentistry/
If you’re looking for a Geelong dental centre that provides sleep dentistry, look no further than Geelong West Dental. Our sleep dentistry is performed by a highly trained team that includes our friendly, local and experienced dentists, as well as an anaesthetic team trained to perform sleep dentistry. Contact us to learn more about sleep dentistry today.