Sleep and Sedation Dentistry in Joondalup

At Candlewood Dental Centre Joondalup, we offer intravenous sedation and general anaesthesia for anxious patients undergoing dental procedures. Let’s explore these sedation options in more detail to help you make a choice:

• IV sedation:
  Administered intravenously, this sedation method keeps you conscious but deeply relaxed throughout the treatment. You will be able to respond to questions and instructions, but most patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterwards. IV sedation is a popular choice for dental patients who have moderate to severe dental anxiety or are undergoing lengthy treatments.
• General anaesthesia:
  This type of sedation is recommended for patients struggling with extreme dental fear or those requiring complex procedures. Under general anaesthesia, you will be completely unconscious and unaware of your surroundings, allowing our team to work more efficiently. A highly trained anaesthetist will monitor your vital signs closely to prioritise your safety and comfort throughout the process.

We know that dental anxiety can be overwhelming, and our goal is to provide a stress-free experience. By offering these sedation options, we aim to help you receive the dental care you need without fear or discomfort. If you have any questions about sleep and sedation dentistry in Joondalup, our friendly team can guide you every step of the way.

Dental sedation is safe as long as it is administered by a qualified and experienced dental team. Here are several factors that contribute to the safety of dental sedation:

• Thorough patient evaluation:
  Before recommending sedation, we will thoroughly assess your medical history and current health status. This helps us determine the most suitable sedation method for your individual needs and minimises potential risks.
• Trained and certified professionals:
  Our team has undergone extensive training and certification in sedation dentistry techniques. They are well-equipped to monitor your vital signs and respond to any changes in your condition during the procedure.
• Advanced monitoring equipment:
  Throughout your treatment, we use advanced monitoring equipment to track your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. This allows us to adjust the sedation level as needed and prioritise your safety.
• Adherence to guidelines and protocols:
  We strictly adhere to established guidelines and protocols for dental sedation, including pre-treatment instructions and post-treatment care. Following these instructions is necessary to minimise the risk of complications and promote a smooth recovery.

While dental sedation has a reliable safety record, you still need to discuss any concerns with our team. We will address your questions and provide you with the information you need to feel comfortable with your chosen sedation method.

Yes, sleep dentistry can be used for a wide range of dental treatments, but it’s not always necessary. Procedures that often need the benefits of sleep dentistry include those that are complex, lengthy, or potentially uncomfortable. Here’s a detailed discussion:

• Extensive restorative work:
  Treatments such as multiple fillings, crowns, bridges, or dental implants may necessitate sleep dentistry. These procedures take a long time to complete and may cause discomfort, so sedation helps patients relax and remain comfortable.
• Oral surgery:
  Sleep dentistry can benefit wisdom tooth extractions, bone grafting, or other surgical procedures. Sedation reduces anxiety and pain during these more invasive procedures, allowing for a more pleasant experience.
• Root canal therapy:
  While not always necessary, sleep dentistry can help patients who are particularly anxious about root canal therapy. Sedation keeps the patient relaxed and still throughout the procedure, enabling the dental health care professional to work more efficiently.
• Cosmetic dentistry:
  Procedures such as veneers or smile makeovers may require multiple appointments and lengthy treatment times. Sleep dentistry can help patients feel more at ease during these cosmetic dentistry procedures.

Our team will work with you to determine whether sleep dentistry is appropriate for your specific treatment plan. We focus on your comfort and strive to create a positive dental experience tailored to your individual needs.

Preparing for a procedure involving dental sedation is crucial to prioritise a safe and successful treatment experience. Several steps should be taken before your appointment to minimise risks and optimise your comfort. Here’s a guide:

1. Discuss your medical history:
   During your consultation, provide the dental professional with your detailed medical history and any medications you take. This information helps them determine a suitable sedation method and dosage for your specific needs.
2. Follow pre-treatment instructions:
   Your dentist will give you detailed pre-treatment instructions, which may include fasting for a specified period before your appointment. Follow these guidelines strictly to avoid the risk of complications during the procedure.
3. Arrange for transportation:
   Dental sedation can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery, so you’ll need a responsible adult to drive you home after your treatment. Make these arrangements in advance to facilitate a safe journey home.
4. Wear comfortable clothing:
   On the day of your procedure, wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves to allow for the placement of monitoring equipment. Avoid wearing contact lenses, jewellery, or any other accessories that may interfere with the treatment.
5. Arrive early and relaxed:
   Plan to arrive at the dental clinic a little earlier than your scheduled appointment time. This allows you to settle in, ask any last-minute questions, and begin the sedation process calmly.

By following these preparation steps, you can help facilitate a smoother and more comfortable dental sedation experience. Our team at Candlewood Dental Centre Joondalup is available to address any concerns you may have and guide you through the process.