For patients who experience dental anxiety, sleep dentistry can make treatment comfortable and pain-free. Also known as sleep sedation, it uses a general anaesthetic to place the patient in an unconscious state during their procedure. You will not feel, see, hear, or remember anything during treatment.
But is it safe? Here is what you should know.
Can Sleep Dentistry Help You?
Sleep dentistry is suited to patients who find it difficult to undergo dental treatment while awake. It may be appropriate if you:
- Experience dental fear or anxiety
- Are afraid of needles or drills
- Have had a traumatic dental experience in the past
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Find it hard to sit still (including children)
- Need multiple or lengthy procedures completed in one session
Sleep dentistry is also used by patients who simply want to have several treatments completed at once in a comfortable setting.
Is Sleep Dentistry Safe? What Are the Risks?
As with any procedure involving anaesthesia, there are some associated risks, including nausea, feeling cold, dizziness, and in very rare cases, more serious complications. However, the likelihood of serious adverse events is very low.
Throughout the procedure, a specialist anaesthetist monitors your blood pressure, oxygen levels, and overall condition. If multiple procedures are being completed, sedation levels can be adjusted as needed.
Before any session, we review:
- Your full medical history, including conditions such as diabetes, heart problems, or obstructive sleep apnoea
- Your surgical history
- Any allergies to medications or foods
- Any substances you may be taking, including tobacco and alcohol
During the procedure, the anaesthetist ensures:
- Oxygen is continuously supplied to your lungs
- Your airway is fully protected
- You remain still throughout
With a thorough understanding of your medical background and dental needs, we determine the appropriate sedation level to keep you safe and comfortable.
It is also worth considering the broader picture. Avoiding necessary dental treatment carries its own risks, including infection, pain, and progressive oral health problems. When weighed against those outcomes, the risks of sleep dentistry are minimal.
Will the Procedure Be Painful?
No. During sleep dentistry, you will not experience any pain or discomfort. After the procedure, some mild discomfort is normal as the treatment area heals, as with any dental work. Our team manages your recovery closely to minimise any post-procedure discomfort.
Other Sedation Options
In addition to general anaesthesia, The Point Dental offers alternative sedation options:
- Anti-anxiety medication such as Valium
- Penthrox inhalation sedation, which is self-administered so you control the level of relief
- Intravenous sedation, which reduces pain while keeping you conscious
Our team can help you determine the most suitable option based on your needs, anxiety level, and the type of treatment required.
Your Next Step
If dental anxiety has been preventing you from seeking care, sleep dentistry may help. Contact The Point Dental to discuss your options and find the right approach for you.