Sleep Dentistry

It is normal to feel nervous about having dental treatment. We can provide a range of sedation options, including local anaesthetic, IV sedation and general anaesthetic for many treatments, including dental implants and tooth removal.

Sedation dentistry does not always involve putting you to sleep. Depending on the type of sedation used, you may still be conscious and able to follow your dentist’s instructions in a calm and relaxed state.

Speak to our team to understand how our sedation options work and what best suits your treatment needs.

Oral sedation

Oral sedation is usually administered in the form of a tablet that is taken an hour or so before your upcoming dental treatment. Before your dental treatment, we will assess your medical history to determine whether oral sedation suits you.

Local anaesthetic

Most dental implant and tooth removal procedures are performed under a local anaesthetic in the dentist’s chair. It is an effective solution for numbing a localised area before treatment and preventing pain. Local anaesthetic can take 10 to 15 minutes to take effect and allows you to remain awake throughout treatment. If you are receiving a local anaesthetic before treatment, you should be able to eat and drink normally. However, it is advised that you avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before and after treatment. Local anaesthetic can last for several hours after treatment but does not inhibit you from driving and will wear off on its own.

IV sedation

Sleep dentistry (IV sedation or twilight sedation) is an effective sedative that allows patients to have treatment in a relaxed, semi-conscious state. While in this state, you are closely monitored and will have little, if any, recollection of your procedure. It may feel like you’ve taken a short nap. IV sedation can be a good addition to local anaesthetic for patients who require extensive or multiple treatments in a single appointment. As it can take up to 24 hours for the effects of the sedatives to completely wear off, you should not drive or operate machinery during this time.

General anaesthetic

Patients may opt for a general anaesthetic in hospital for complex procedures involving dental implants, extensive bone grafting, gum lifts or tooth extractions. Under general anaesthesia, you will remain unconscious for the entire procedure and only wake up after treatment. You should avoid driving or operating machinery for up to 48 hours after having general anesthesia.

Who needs sleep dentistry?

There are many reasons why patients may require sedation for dental procedures. The most common reasons include the following:

Patients dealing with anxiety and fears towards dental procedures.
Patients with past traumatic experiences. You might have had a bad experience with previous dental procedures.
Patients with general anxiety disorders. We completely understand, and we’ll find a way to make you feel comfortable
Some patients have very sensitive oral nerve endings. If that’s you, then a certain level of sleep dentistry can be beneficial.
Patients with resistance to local anesthetics. Local anesthetics don’t work for some. We can provide you with something stronger.
Patients with small mouths. People with small mouths can often tire from keeping their mouths open through a lengthy procedure. Sleep dentistry can eliminate discomfort, resulting in a minimal discomfort procedure.

Is sleep dentistry suitable for me?

Sleep dentistry may be a suitable option for patients requiring extensive dental care or multiple treatments in a single appointment. Sleep dentistry may not be ideal if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory issues. Upon visiting our practice, we will assess your medical history before recommending the most suitable sedation option for your treatment.