What is Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep Dentistry describes a procedure where dental treatment is performed while the patient is sedated. It is called sleep dentistry because the sedative used causes patients to sleep throughout the procedure.
Sleep dentistry is the most comfortable and relaxing way to have dental treatment done. Patients sleep (are sedated) throughout the procedure and so cannot feel the treatment taking place. There is also an amnesia effect with the sedation so there is usually no memory of having the procedure done afterwards. It is like getting on a long-haul flight, falling asleep and waking up refreshed at your destination – with no memory of the flight in-between.
How common is Sleep Dentistry?
Dental treatment carried out under IV sedation is becoming very popular at Dental Nook. We are now treating several patients per week using this technique.
How does Sleep Dentistry Work?
When a patient chooses sleep dentistry for their dental procedure, we usually schedule as much treatment as possible in a single appointment.
Before treatment begins, we insert an IV drip and administer a sedative which causes the patient to fully relax and fall asleep.
While sedated, the patient feels no pain and is not aware of the dental treatment taking place.
The sedative used is called Freesofol (more info here) and is safely used all over the world in hospitals and dental clinics.
What is the procedure for Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep dentistry involves the administration of a general anaesthesia to place patients in a deep sleep-like state. This allows for completion of dental treatment without the patient feeling anxious or concerned during the procedure.
Our dedicated general anaesthesia team consists of a Specialist Anaesthetist, a registered nurse, an experienced dentist and a senior dental assistant. All have considerable experience in caring for patients with dental phobia, ensuring dental treatment is carried out efficiently and safely.
General anaesthesia is provided by a board-registered Specialist Anaesthetist who is responsible for providing the appropriate medications and monitoring during the procedure, in addition to bringing the patient back to a wakeful state at the end of treatment. General anaesthesia involves close monitoring of vital signs and protection of the airway by the Specialist Anaesthetist and registered nurse, meaning that patients receive optimal care throughout the procedure.
Who might benefit from sleep dentistry?
Sleep dentistry is beneficial for these patients and situations:
What are the advantages of sleep dentistry?
Reduce Dentist-Related Fear
Ease Dental Anxiety
Help You Relax Physically
Lower Your Pain Perception
Make Dental Procedures Faster
Provide a Safe Sedation Option
Is Sleep Dentistry Expensive?
The cost of treatment with IV sedation or GA varies significantly based on each patient's needs. Dr Asad's goal is to make high-quality and comfortable dentistry accessible to all patients, so we accept all health funds, offer HICAPS on-site claiming, assist with early super access, and provide payment plans to help our patients easily fit their treatment expenses into their budgets.
Dr Asad will discuss all your treatment options, timelines for completing your care, and the investment and payment options during an initial consultation.
We would love to help you reach your smile goals and achieve optimal dental health in the most comfortable manner. The first step is booking your evaluation with Dr Asad online or by talking with our team.
Dr Asad and his team proudly serve the greater area of Brisbane and the surrounding communities of Logan, Gold Coast, Springwood, Bayside and Ipswich.
Sleep Dentistry at Dental Nook
Our dedicated general anaesthesia team consists of a Specialist Anaesthetist, a registered nurse, an experienced dentist and a senior dental assistant. All have considerable experience in caring for patients with dental phobia, ensuring dental treatment is carried out efficiently and safely.
You can sit back and relax in our beautiful, state of the art sleep dentistry facility in South Melbourne. Our sleek architectural designed practice boasts ample natural light, scented candles and relaxing background music, as well as a dedicated recovery room fitted with comfortable furniture and calm lighting.
Dr.Nikita verma
Dr. Nikita, originally from India, graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from Gujarat University in 2007. In 2009, she relocated to New Zealand, where she gained extensive experience working in and owning multiple dental clinics across Auckland.
After more than a decade of professional success, she moved to Brisbane in 2022, where she has since established her permanent home, continuing her passion for providing quality dental care.
Comparing Sedation Options
Sedation Type | Best For | Consciousness Level | Recovery Time | Setting |
---|---|---|---|---|
Happy Gas | Mild anxiety, simple procedures | Awake but relaxed | 5-10 minutes | Dental chair |
Oral Sedation | Moderate anxiety | Awake but drowsy | Several hours | Dental chair |
IV Sedation | High anxiety, complex procedures | Semi-conscious | 24 hours | Dental chair |
General Anaesthesia | Severe phobia, extensive work | Unconscious | 1-2 days | Hospital |
We accept a wide range of payment options to make your dental care more convenient and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
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