Sleep Dentistry

• Have a fear of going to the dentist and are experiencing complex problems
• Have had a recent bad experience at the dentist’s
• Have sensitive teeth during routine cleans
• Want the majority of dental work done in a short time
• Have difficulty achieving the desired effects of local anesthetic even with multiple injections
• Have gag reflex
• Hate needles/injections, noises, smells, or anything associated with dental care
• Are afraid or embarrassed about their teeth
• Have mental health problems and feel you will benefit from sedation

• Inhalation sedation, known as “laughing gas” or nitrous oxide

  This is a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen delivered through a Safe Porter system to achieve a mild form of analgesia and sedation. May not be suitable for patients with respiratory disorders.

  This option is best for people who dislike needles as this provides a bit of altered consciousness and reduces mild anti-anxiety. It can be used safely for most patients except for those with terminal diseases or respiratory obstructions, severe cold or hay fever.

• Oral sedation in the form of anti-anxiety pills or liquid

  This is the most common form of sedation used or the majority of the patients. The choice of drug, dosage and timing is decided by our trained sedation dentists. If taken one hour prior to appointment, the oral sedation pill will take effect almost immediately, helping to calm and relax you while your Holistic Dental dentist works on your mouth. The most commonly prescribed drugs are Valium and Xanax.

  Best for most patients as standalone mechanism for anxiety or in combination of nitrous oxide, Penthrox or IV sedation. Most dental procedures can be completed with this sedation.

• Intravenous Sedation (IV)

  This is when the drugs administered into the blood stream through a vein. This method of sleep dentistry is safe as it is controlled and produces a deeper level of anesthesia providing a comfortable experience and minimal level of memory afterwards.

  Prior to recommending patients for IV sedation, a through medical interview is conducted by the dentist and the anesthetist to check the patient’s medical fitness for the procedure.

  Once your treatment is complete, you may need to spend some time in the recovery room while you regain consciousness. The effects of the medication can remain in the system for 24 hours, and you will need someone to drive you to and from your Holistic Dental Centre, as well as keep an eye on you at home whilst you are recovering.

  This option is best for mild phobic patients, those with anxiety issues, and patients with severe gag reflex or when a patient needs major dental work in a single long session.

For more information on Sleep Dentistry and whether it is something you might consider, speak to your Holistic Dental Practitioner.