Sedation For Dentistry

Consultations available now!

Click here to book your consultation.

Dental Phobia:

Everybody’s dental phobia or apprehension of dental treatment is different. Even though there are many similar themes, the way different people react to their fear of dental treatment is different, and so the treatment options for each patient are different. As dentists with an interest in treating dental phobics, it is essential that we treat you, the patient as an individual and customise your treatment to your specific needs. Usually the most difficult step for the patient is making the commitment to visit the dentist for that initial appointment. We have dentists who have had lots of experience in administering Oral and IV sedation. More importantly we share the philosophy that dental treatment can and should be carried out as painlessly and comfortably as possible, creating a manageable situation for patients who are apprehensive over visiting the dentist.

Conscious Sedation – dentistry while you sleep

Many patients are apprehensive about visiting the dentist, and this can often be the reason why they haven’t been in a very long time. If the sight of needles and the smells, sounds and tastes associated with many dental procedures make you want to run for the nearest exit, then sedation dentistry may be just what you need to get you back into the dentist’s chair.
Sedation dentistry is not just for those who are nervous about dental procedures, but it can also help patients who have difficulty controlling their gag reflex, experience pain because of sensitive teeth or do not respond well to numbing medications. It allows us to perform several dental procedures in just one appointment!

Intravenous sedation is our preferred method. Using this technique, your dose is controlled so that you get just the right amount of medication, keeping you very comfortable during the procedure. During Conscious Sedation dentistry you receive the same treatment as you would with traditional dentistry, but it is carried out while you are in a “twilight sleep,” and breathing comfortably on your own. You may be somewhat aware of what is going on around you, and you will be able to answer when spoken to and adjust your position if necessary.

What is Twilight Sedation?

Twilight Sedation is the most advanced form of dental sedation. It uses a combination of sedative and pain relieving drugs given intravenously to create a dream-like state of deep, calm relaxation for the entire duration of your dental procedure.

After the Procedure

When you wake up you will usually have no memory of your dental treatment, and it will feel as though no time has passed at all! You will feel like you’ve had a very deep and satisfying rest/sleep, with no pain, no discomfort and no fear! In addition, the recovery time is shorter than with general anaesthesia, typically lasting less than one hour after your treatment is complete, and has no association with nausea.

Additional Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Because you will be so comfortable and free of anxiety, we can work even more efficiently and for a longer period than usual, often accomplishing in a single visit what might normally require multiple visits, such as placement of multiple fillings or a combination of different treatments. This also makes sedation an ideal choice for people who prefer to undergo complex procedures in one visit, instead of having them spread out over several appointments. Also people who experience a strong gag reflex (which tends to interfere with dental treatment) will be freed from the problem, since such reflexes will be diminished during this procedure.

Who Is A Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?

People Who Have….

• High fear
• A past history of difficult dental procedures
• An unpleasant childhood memory of dentistry
• Difficulty getting numb
• A strong gag reflex
• Very sensitive teeth
• Complex dental problems

People Who….

• Hate the noises, smells and tastes associated with dental care
• Are afraid or embarrassed about their teeth

Will I be unconscious?

No, you will be in a deeply relaxed state, but you will be able to respond. Time will appear to go very quickly and an hour of treatment will appear to take about 10 minutes.

Will I be monitored?

Yes, at least two members of our team are always with you and your vital signs are monitored during the entire visit. You are never alone.

How long will I be asleep?

Depending on your needs, about an hour.

Will someone need to come with me?

Yes, due to the after effects of the sedation, you will need someone to drive you home from our clinic and also to stay with you and mind you for the rest of the day.

Will I be ok the following day?

Yes it will be completely worn off the following day.