Sedation Dentistry
Enjoy peace of mind for your procedure with dental sedation
Dental anxiety is a serious ailment for many people. Here at our Charlestown dental practice, we are committed to making you feel comfortable and at-home during all aspects of treatment. Discover peace of mind with sedation dentistry in Newcastle NSW.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a way by which dentists can keep patients relaxed during dental procedures. By using sedative medication, you can undergo a dental procedure without the fear or anxiety you would normally feel. This technique puts you into a calm yet conscious state and is commonly used for dental treatments such as wisdom tooth extraction or dental implants.
Benefits of sedation for dentistry include safe, pain-free treatments, and the ability to have complex dental treatments done in just one visit.
At Charlestown Dental Centre, we offer several types of sedation dentistry:
Penthrox
Penthrox is a hand-held medical inhaler that can be used by children and adults for most dental treatments. Offered by sedation dentists in Australia for decades, this analgesic provides immediate pain relief and relaxation.
Nitrous Oxide
Transform your dentist chair into a beach chair with this relaxing treatment. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or happy gas, is a simple form of sedation. Essentially, you inhale the gas through a small mask that is fitted over your nose and mouth. Your dentist will be able to control the intensity of the inhalant so that he or she will be able to communicate with you during treatment.
Gentle Touch
Sometimes your body needs a helping hand to heal. Gentle touch utilises the body’s own healing process to help speed up recovery and aid in the healing of your mouth or teeth surgery.
How do you get sedated at the dentist?
1. Discuss your options
Visit the dentist for a consultation and talk through your options for sedation. Your dentist will review your medical history and ask about any medication you are currently taking. Depending on your needs and wants, they will then present you with a choice of sedatives. Pick your preferred method and rest easy knowing you will feel calm during your dental treatment.
2. Sit back and undergo sedation
On the day of treatment, your dentist will start by administering your chosen sedative. Once you feel comfortable and relaxed, you will receive local anaesthetic to numb your gums and teeth. Then it’s time to sit back, relax and await the great results!
3. Get a ride home and recover
After your treatment, you will need a trusted family member or friend to collect you and bring you home. The only exception is if you have chosen nitrous oxide for dental sedation. In any case, please stay at home and relax until the sedative wears off.
Arrange a consultation for sedation dentistry in Newcastle
If you have been postponing an important treatment because of dental phobia, our dentists are able to work with you to create a comfortable experience. Our calming space and friendly team will help you to feel at ease when you visit the dentist. If you would like to learn more about sedation dentistry, please contact us to schedule a dental appointment today.
Frequently asked questions
What are the side effects of sedation?
In general, you will feel relaxed and slightly drowsy following sedation. However, additional side effects vary depending on the specific sedative medication you select. Certain sedatives wear off sooner than others.
For example, inhalation sedation has no after effects and tends to wear off quickly. On the other hand, the effects of oral and IV sedation last longer, requiring you to organise a lift home after treatment and avoid the use of heavy machinery for 24 hours.
If you have any questions or concerns about the side effects of dental sedation, please raise these with your dentist during your consultation.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Dental sedation is safe when administered by an experienced dentist and provided you do not have any pre-existing health conditions that may interfere with the medication.
At Charlestown Dental Centre, your dentist will go over your medical history with you during your consultation to ensure that sedation is a safe option. Please share all relevant information and discuss any concerns you may have before you are sedated.
Is dental sedation sore?
Dental sedation is not painful. Rather, you will feel calm and relaxed throughout your procedure. You will also receive a local anaesthetic after you are sedated to minimise the risk of any pain during the dental treatment.
How much does sedation cost at the dentist?
The cost of sedation dentistry depends on the type of sedative administered. At Charlestown Dental Centre, every treatment plan is personalised and written estimates will be provided following the initial consultation.
To learn more, please contact us or book a consultation online for sedation dentistry in Newcastle NSW.
Can a dentist put you to sleep?
We tend to look at conscious sedation options first, as these methods will help you to feel relaxed while keeping you conscious so that you can provide your dentist with feedback during the treatment.
To discuss your options, please contact our friendly team or book a consultation online.