Sedation & Sleep Dentistry
Feel Calm and Comfortable at the Dentist
Feeling nervous about dental treatment is more common than you might think. Whether you experience mild anxiety, have a strong gag reflex or have been avoiding the dentist because of fear, there are options available to make your visit more comfortable.
At Macquarie Dentists in Macquarie Park, our experienced dentists offer happy gas (nitrous oxide) and IV sedation (sleep dentistry) for suitable patients, allowing us to tailor your care to your individual needs and level of anxiety.
Don’t let dental anxiety stop you from looking after your smile. Talk to our friendly team today about your sedation options.
CALMER DENTAL CARE
Nervous About Visiting the Dentist?
Dental anxiety can range from feeling slightly uneasy before an appointment to being so fearful that you avoid dental treatment altogether.
You may benefit from additional support if you:
- Feel nervous or anxious about dental treatment
- Have had a difficult dental experience in the past
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Feel uncomfortable with dental sounds, smells or sensations
- Need a longer or more complex procedure
- Have difficulty sitting comfortably through treatment
- Have been putting off dental care because of fear
If anxiety has kept you away from the dentist, you can start with a comprehensive dental examination. Our team can assess your teeth, listen to your concerns and discuss your treatment options at a pace you’re comfortable with.
Not sure which option is right for you? Talk to our team today.
YOUR COMFORT COMES FIRST
What Happens Before Sedation?
Before recommending sedation, we take the time to understand your concerns and make sure the option is appropriate for you.
During your consultation, your dentist will:
- Talk with you about your dental anxiety, concerns and previous experiences
- Review your medical history and medications
- Discuss the dental treatment you require
- Explain your available sedation options
- Recommend an option based on your individual circumstances
- Explain any pre- and post-treatment instructions
If IV sedation is planned, you’ll receive specific instructions before your appointment, including requirements around eating, drinking, medications, transport and having a responsible adult accompany you where required.
FIND THE RIGHT OPTION FOR YOU
Your Dental Sedation Options
The right sedation option depends on your level of anxiety, treatment and individual needs. Our team will help you choose the option that keeps you calm and comfortable.
1. Happy Gas – Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Happy gas is a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen that helps you feel calm and relaxed while remaining awake throughout treatment.
It may be suitable for mild to moderate dental anxiety or a sensitive gag reflex, with effects wearing off relatively quickly after treatment.
2. IV Sedation – Sleep Dentistry
For greater dental anxiety or more complex treatment, IV sedation can help you feel deeply relaxed, with many patients remembering little of the procedure afterwards.
Often called “sleep dentistry,” IV sedation may be suitable for procedures such as wisdom teeth removal or dental implant treatment.
Your dentist will assess whether IV sedation is suitable for you.
Why Choose Macquarie Dentists for Sedation Dentistry?
We Understand Dental Anxiety
If you’ve avoided the dentist because you’re nervous or embarrassed, you’re not alone. Our team will listen to your concerns and help you feel comfortable without judgement.
Sedation Options for Different Needs
From happy gas for additional relaxation through to IV sedation for suitable patients requiring greater support, we’ll help determine an appropriate option for you.
Experienced Dental Team
Our dentists provide gentle, patient-focused care and take the time to explain your treatment before getting started.
IV Sedation Available at Our Clinic
For suitable patients, IV sedation can be provided at Macquarie Dentists with an appropriately qualified sedation practitioner attending the clinic.
Gentle & Comfortable Care
We take the time to keep you comfortable throughout treatment and explain each step before we begin.
Don't Let Dental Anxiety Keep You From a Healthy Smile
Putting off dental care because of fear can allow small problems to become more difficult to treat.
Whether you simply need a little help relaxing or experience significant dental anxiety, our team can discuss ways to make your dental treatment feel more manageable.
If you’ve delayed treatment and are now experiencing severe toothache, swelling or a broken tooth, don’t wait. Our gentle dentist in Macquarie Park can assess the problem and discuss ways to keep you comfortable during treatment.
You don’t need to know which type of sedation you need before contacting us. Tell us what you’re worried about and we’ll help you understand your options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is sleep dentistry?
Sleep dentistry commonly refers to dental treatment performed with sedation to help you feel deeply relaxed. At Macquarie Dentists, IV sedation may be available for suitable patients. It is different from having a general anaesthetic in hospital.
Will I actually be asleep during sleep dentistry?
Not necessarily. With IV sedation, you are deeply relaxed and your awareness of the procedure is reduced. Many patients remember little about their treatment afterwards, which is why it is often referred to as sleep dentistry.
What is happy gas?
Happy gas is the common name for nitrous oxide sedation. A mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is inhaled through a small mask over your nose to help you feel calmer and more relaxed during dental treatment.
Will happy gas put me to sleep?
No. You generally remain awake and able to communicate with your dentist while using happy gas, although you may feel very relaxed or drowsy.
Who can have dental sedation?
Suitability depends on your health, medical history, medications, level of anxiety and the dental treatment you require. Your dentist will assess these factors before recommending sedation.
Can I have sedation if I'm scared of needles?
Tell us if needles are one of the things that make you anxious. Happy gas does not require an IV, while IV sedation does. We can discuss your concerns and available options before treatment.
Can sedation be used for any dental treatment?
Sedation may be used with many dental procedures, but it isn’t necessary or appropriate in every situation. Your dentist will recommend an option based on your treatment and individual needs.
Do I still need local anaesthetic with sedation?
Sedation and local anaesthetic have different purposes. Sedation helps reduce anxiety and awareness, while local anaesthetic is generally used to numb the treatment area when required.
Can I drive home after dental sedation?
This depends on the type of sedation used. IV sedation requires specific post-treatment precautions and you will generally need a responsible adult to accompany you and take you home. We will provide clear instructions before your appointment.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation isn’t suitable for everyone, which is why your medical history, medications and planned treatment need to be assessed beforehand. When sedation is appropriate, the type and level of sedation are selected according to the individual patient and procedure.
TAKE THE FIRST STEP
Don’t Let Dental Anxiety Keep You From a Healthy Smile