If you are one of those people who are afraid of going to the dentist, you are not alone. Did you know that more than 20% of patients with dental anxiety do not visit their dentist regularly, and up to 15% avoid dental care altogether?
We at Vision Dental believe dental care should be accessible to everyone, even those with dental fears. That is why we use innovative techniques and cutting-edge technology to ensure that our dental anxiety patients receive their treatment in a calm and relaxed environment and, more importantly, painlessly. One such globally-acknowledged and time-tested technique is sleep dentistry or conscious sedation. So let’s understand sleep dentistry and how it can help highly apprehensive or dental phobia patients.
Sleep dentistry is a technique in which patients with dental anxiety or fears are administered pharmacological agents that make them tired. However, these patients are not entirely asleep; they are drowsy and can respond to the dentist’s instructions. The benefit of these sedative agents is that they make frightened patients relaxed and cooperative. Furthermore, patients do not remember anything about their procedure, making sleep dentistry an ideal treatment option for individuals who have had a bad previous dental treatment experience.
Sleep dentistry is a suitable treatment option for a variety of dental patients, such as those who:
Sedation may help suitable patients who feel very nervous about dental visits or procedures.
For some patients, sedation may make longer or more complex dental procedures easier to manage.
Certain sedation approaches may help patients who struggle with a sensitive gag reflex during dental treatment.
Patients who find it difficult to remain comfortable during treatment can discuss suitable options with their dental team.
There are various levels of sleep dentistry or sedation. The first level is conscious sedation, in which we will administer nitrous oxide – also known as laughing gas – relax and calm our patients. This inhalation sedation is beneficial for patients who need to undergo short procedures. For highly anxious patients, the next level is oral sedation, in which we will ask them to take an oral sedative once the night before and once half an hour before their appointment. Oral sedation offers a longer-lasting sedative effect, and patients need to be accompanied or driven home under the care of a loved one.
Sleep dentistry is safe if a qualified and experienced dentist performs it. At Vision Dental, we have qualified dental professionals who have attained certification in sleep dentistry. Hence, you are in safe hands with us. So, book an appointment today and enjoy a safe, pain-free, and relaxing dental treatment experience at Vision Dental.
Not necessarily. The term can refer to different sedation methods. Some help you relax while remaining conscious, whereas general anaesthesia makes you fully unconscious. Ask your dental team which option is available.
It may be suitable for some patients. Your dentist will assess your anxiety, medical history, and treatment needs before recommending an approach.
Sedation and general anaesthesia have potential risks. Safety depends on factors such as your health, the technique used, appropriate monitoring, and the qualifications of the professionals providing care.
Depending on clinical suitability and available services, sedation may be considered for some examinations, restorative treatments, extractions, or more complex procedures.
Sedation helps with relaxation or awareness, but it does not necessarily eliminate pain. Local anaesthesia or other pain-management measures may still be required.
For many sedation methods, you will need a responsible adult to accompany you home. Requirements depend on the type of sedation and the instructions provided by your treating team.
No. Medical conditions, medications, pregnancy, airway or breathing concerns, and other factors may affect suitability. A proper assessment is necessary before treatment.
Follow your dental team’s instructions carefully. Depending on the method, you may receive specific directions about food, drinks, medications, transport, and having someone accompany you.
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