Sleep Dentistry: How It Works and Who It’s Best For
The truth is that many people don’t look forward to going to the dentist. While there are some who enjoy it and many that don’t mind it, there are many more who have phobias or anxiety about their dental visits. Sleep dentistry is a solution that caters to this demographic, providing a solution to restore relaxation and calm while the patient gets their needs taken care of.
Sleep dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, helps patients with solutions that will relax them, keep them calm, and might even make them sleep through a dental procedure. These practices are safe and effective when handled by qualified providers, and they’re a great way to get needs met without fear and anxiety negatively impacting the experience. Learn more about sleep dentistry in this guide.
What Exactly is Sleep Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is sometimes known as sleep dentistry because the medications used often make people drowsy because they are in a heavy state of calm and relaxation. The patient is provided with a form of medication that reduces anxiety and makes the procedures more comfortable. This helps them stay relaxed, or maybe even asleep, during their dental treatment. Often the patient has no memory of the appointment.
There are different types and levels of sedation, all of which have varying effects. Some cause mild euphoria and calm, while others cause drowsiness or even unawareness. Sedation can be used for different dental needs, but it’s also a great tool for people with dental phobia or anxiety who struggle to make it through an appointment.
Not all forms of sedation will cause sleep, despite the name.
Different Types of Sedation
Every office that offers sedation solutions will have unique options available. Some will offer everything from mild laughing gas to full anesthesia, but the options might vary from office to office. Let’s take a look at the most common sedation approaches.
- Nitrous Oxide: also known as laughing gas, this is the modest sedation and it is inhaled through a mask. It causes relaxation and euphoria while you are fully awake. This wears off quickly, almost as soon as the mask is removed. Most patients can drive after using nitrous oxide.
- Oral Sedation: a pill is prescribed and the patient takes their dose at a specified timeframe before the procedure. Oral sedation offers a deeper state of calm and often comes with side effects of drowsiness, too. You will remain conscious, although you might fall asleep and you should not drive.
- IV Sedation: this is administered through an IV in your vein and provides a deep level of sedation, placing you in a semi-conscious and relaxed state. Many people fall asleep. This requires regular monitoring as well as a recovery period and is most common for long or complex procedures.
How Does the Process Work?
You should speak to your provider if sedation is needed. They can walk you through the specific process. If you have never met with the provider before, you will likely start with a consultation before any procedures are scheduled.
- Schedule a consultation, unless you are already established with a provider
- Follow any pre-appointment instructions, such as fasting or ensuring someone drives you
- Undergo treatment with monitoring from your provider
- Recovery as needed for sedation or procedures
Who Should Use Sleep Dentistry, and Is It Safe?
Really, anyone can benefit from sleep or sedation dentistry, particularly if there is any type of anxiety or phobia they deal with. Here are some great examples of individuals who might benefit the most:
- Adults with dental anxiety or fear of seeing the dentist
- Anyone with high sensitivity
- Individuals with special needs and challenges
- Patients needing extensive work
- Someone who doesn’t numb easily
- Those with strong gag reflexes
- People with medical or cognitive conditions
When administered by trained professionals, sleep or sedation solutions are very safe. While some do have risks or potential side effects, your provider will make you aware of these before administering anything. It’s not right for everyone, which is why it’s important to speak with your provider and let them evaluate you before they administer any sedation.
Sleep Dentistry with Smith Dental Care
If you are curious about sleep dentistry or feel it might be necessary for you to attend dental appointments with comfort, safety, and peace of mind, we can help. At Smith Dental Care, we proudly offer sedation solutions and work to make our entire atmosphere welcoming and comfortable for all.
Don’t put off your dental care. We are here to help! Schedule your appointment today!