Sleep dentistry in Alstonville may make it easier for some patients to book and keep dental appointments. Of course, anxiety isn’t the only thing keeping some patients away from dental care, but it is one of the more common reasons.
In this blog, we explore how sleep dentistry may lift barriers for some patients who skip dental care altogether.
About Sleep Dentistry: What You Should Know
Sleep dentistry, specifically general anesthesia, is administered in the hospital via IV. This level of anesthesia means you won’t recall your appointment. In fact, you’ll sleep through the entire procedure.
Whether it’s sleep dentistry or another form of sedation, we take a health history to ensure you’re a candidate and monitor you closely throughout treatment.
Other than nitrous, our sedation options (as discussed later in this blog) require a caregiver to transport you home from your procedure. We recommend resting for the remainder of the day, not operating a vehicle/machinery, and not making any life-altering decisions.
Who Might Benefit from Sleep Dentistry?
- Dental Phobia and Anxiety: Patients with dental phobia and anxiety may benefit from sleep dentistry.
- Strong Gag Reflex: If you cough or gag easily during dental appointments, sedation dentistry may be the solution.
- Multiple or Invasive Treatments: Sleep sedation and our other options can make the appointment feel like it goes by more quickly.
- Inability to Relax: If you’re fidgety and can’t relax, talk to your Alstonville dentist about our sedation options.
Other Sedation Dentistry Options in Alstonville
- Oral Conscious Sedation: This level of sedation, sometimes called 'twilight sedation', is not as deep as sleep dentistry. However, you still may not remember your treatment, though you can still respond to the dentist.
- Oral Premedication: This sedation method helps you relax nicely while the dentist cares for your smile.
- Nitrous Oxide: This sedation method, delivered through a nasal mask, produces feelings of detachment and melancholy. The good news is that it wears off immediately after treatment.
We Encourage You to Talk to Us About Sedation Dentistry
We never want anxiety or other issues to keep you from getting the care you need.
To learn more about our compassionate and gentle approach to dental care or to book a consultation with the dentist, we welcome your call on (02) 6403 9540.
Remember to ask a member of our dental team about our current specials!