Dental fear affects as many as one in six Australians. Whether the anxiety comes from a past experience, a fear of needles or drills, or general discomfort with the process, it does not have to prevent you from getting the care you need.
Understanding the types of sedation available can help you feel more prepared and in control of your next appointment. Here is an overview of the options.
Sleep Dentistry (General Anaesthesia)
For patients with significant dental anxiety, sleep dentistry may be the most appropriate option. A general anaesthetic is administered so that you are completely asleep throughout the procedure. You will not feel, see, or hear anything, and will wake once the treatment is complete.
At The Point Dental, sleep dentistry is available at our on-site general anaesthetic facility.
Who Is Dental Sedation Suited To?
Dental sedation may be worth considering if you:
- Experience dental fear or anxiety
- Are afraid of drills or needles
- Have very sensitive teeth
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Find it difficult to sit still (including children)
- Need multiple or lengthy procedures completed
What Happens During Sleep Dentistry
Before the procedure, the dentist reviews your medical history to ensure the right type of sedation is used.
A specialist anaesthetist administers the general anaesthetic. An anaesthetic cream can be applied to minimise the sensation of the IV line, and sedation is delivered progressively over approximately 20 minutes.
Throughout the procedure, the dental team monitors your blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen levels. If multiple procedures are being completed in one session, the level of sedation may be adjusted as needed. In some cases, the anaesthetist may briefly lighten the sedation so you can confirm the work feels comfortable before the procedure is finalised.
Afterwards, a short recovery period is needed before you can get up and move around. You should not drive or operate machinery until at least the following day.
Alternatives to Sleep Dentistry
If a general anaesthetic is not needed or preferred, there are lighter sedation options available.
Twilight Sedation
Administered through an IV line, twilight sedation is milder than a full anaesthetic. Patients typically describe the experience as feeling like waking from a brief nap.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is an effective relaxant for both adults and children. It reduces anxiety, slows the body's reaction time, and provides mild pain relief. The gas is breathed through a mask during the procedure, and its effects wear off within five to ten minutes once the mask is removed.
Other Options
Additional alternatives include:
- Anti-anxiety medication such as Valium
- Penthrox inhalation sedation, which is self-administered so you control the level of relief
- Headphones and eye masks for distraction during the procedure
These methods can also be combined to suit your level of anxiety and the type of treatment being performed.
Your Next Step
If you have been putting off dental care due to anxiety, sedation may help you get the treatment you need comfortably. Contact The Point Dental to discuss your options for sleep dentistry and find the right approach for you.