What is sleep dentistry?
Going to the dentist can be intimidating, which is why some patients opt for sleep dentistry. Sleep dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, allows people with dental phobias and anxieties to be sedated during treatment, giving them a more comfortable experience.
There are different levels of sedation depending on the patient’s preferences and the dental office’s services. Sedation methods can range from laughing gas to full anesthesia. Here is a look at the common approaches:
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing gas)
Nitrous oxide provides light sedation, helping patients relax while remaining fully awake. It is administered through a mask or nosepiece and typically begins working within 3–5 minutes. The effects wear off quickly, allowing most patients to drive themselves home after treatment.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
IV sedation involves administering medication directly into the bloodstream, placing patients in a semi-conscious, deeply relaxed state. This option is often recommended for longer or more complex procedures and is typically the strongest form of sedation available in a dental office setting.
Oral Conscious Sedation
With oral sedation, patients take a prescribed pill—such as Valium or Halcion—about an hour before their appointment. While patients remain awake, they are deeply relaxed and often have little to no memory of the procedure. A ride home is required.
General Anesthesia
Though less common in dental offices, general anesthesia may be used in certain cases. Patients are completely unconscious during treatment and closely monitored throughout the procedure.
Who Is a Good Candidate For Sleep Dentistry?
People who are great candidates for sleep dentistry include:
Adults or children who have a fear of visiting the dentist
Patients with high sensitivity
Special needs individuals
Patients who need extensive work, such as implants or extractions
People with strong gag reflexes
Benefits of Sleep Dentistry
Sleep dentistry provides many positives, such as:
Reducing stress during appointments
Helping patients feel comfortable receiving regular dental care
Allowing for more procedures to be completed in one visit
Oral health is important, and with the help of sleep dentistry, everyone can benefit from regular dental visits.
At Midland Dental, we offer safe and effective sedation options tailored to your needs. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and experience dentistry more comfortably.