IV Sedation and Sleep Dentistry in Brisbane

Highly Experienced Dental Care at Excellence in Dentistry

Man receiving sedation dentistry There can be a lot of anxiety, fear and phobia that patients feel around a variety of dental procedures and treatments. Our skilled and compassionate team at Excellence in Dentistry understands this and has invested in extensive training to offer different types of sedatives to help put our apprehensive clients at ease during their care with us.

We want all of our patients to have a calming and relaxing dental experience. Through intravenous conscious sedation, also known as IV sedation, and happy gas, we are here to help make your treatment as relaxed and comfortable as possible. You simply receive the sedation, relax and let us worry about the rest.

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IV Sedation for Complex Cases

IV sedation is administered directly into the bloodstream by a highly trained and experienced sedation consultant who works with our practice. Typically used for higher levels of apprehension or more complex procedures like implants, intravenous sedation usually involves administering a drug of the anti-anxiety variant into the bloodstream.

The application of IV sedation has been very beneficial to hundreds of patients in getting the appropriate treatment for them. Regardless of the treatment type, whether a simple tooth filling or a more complex dental implant procedure, IV sedation can keep you relaxed and make your time at the dental office more enjoyable and less stressful.

You will be dozing on and off while being able to respond accordingly to your dentist’s requests and experiencing a feeling of calmness and relaxation. The procedure will not be painful and gives you the feeling of brevity.

The duration of IV sedation effects varies depending on the type and amount of medication administered and individual factors such as metabolism. After the procedure, patients may experience residual drowsiness or grogginess for several hours. A responsible adult will need to accompany you home and stay with you for a few hours.

There are conditions that may prevent patients from receiving IV sedation, including pregnancy, intoxication, CNS depression or glaucoma, and a benzodiazepine allergy.

Give our friendly team a call on (07) 3839 7757 if you are interested in learning more about this as an option for your upcoming treatment.

Dr Mark talking with patient

Happy Gas for Mild Anxiety

Nitrous oxide, or happy gas, is an inhaled sedative that produces a mild euphoric effect and helps alleviate anxiety and discomfort during treatment. While IV sedation offers a deeper level of sedation, happy gas provides a lighter form of relaxation.

Happy gas will also be applied by a trained professional and administered through a mask that is placed over the nose. It has long been used in dentistry to help patients feel more relaxed, and the effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed hence patients can drive back home.

The Many Benefits of Sleep Dentistry

From fillings and cleanings to more complex dental procedures, sleep dentistry is a game-changer for patients who experience anxiety, fears or phobias when it comes to the dentist’s office. If you find yourself putting off visits to us, this could be the key to unlocking a better experience for you.

It is helpful for patients who have a strong gag reflex, have needle phobias, need cosmetic dental procedures done, such as veneers, must have their wisdom teeth removed, or need dental implants placed. It’s also an important tool for our dentists to use when your schedule dictates an appointment involving several different procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is IV sedation, and how does it differ from nitrous oxide (happy gas)?

IV sedation involves the administration of sedative drugs intravenously to induce a state of deep relaxation and drowsiness during dental procedures. Nitrous oxide, or happy gas, is an inhaled sedative that produces a mild euphoric effect and helps alleviate anxiety and discomfort during treatment. While IV sedation offers a deeper level of sedation, happy gas provides a lighter form of relaxation.

Is IV sedation safe for dental procedures?

It’s considered safe when administered by a qualified medical or dental professional trained in sedation dentistry. Before treatment, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your medical history and assess your suitability for IV sedation. Additionally, vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.

Will I be unconscious during IV sedation?

While IV sedation induces a state of deep relaxation and drowsiness, patients typically float between a state of sleep to a relaxed state of consciousness and are able to respond to verbal cues from the dentist. However, many patients report having little to no memory of the procedure afterwards.

What are the benefits of IV sedation and happy gas for dental treatment?

IV sedation and happy gas offer several benefits, including:

Reduced anxiety and fear associated with dental procedures
Increased comfort and relaxation during treatment
Minimised discomfort and pain perception
Enhanced cooperation and compliance for patients with dental phobia or special needs
Increased efficiency for complex or lengthy procedures, as patients remain calm and still

How long does the effect of IV sedation last?

The duration of IV sedation effects varies depending on the type and amount of medication administered and individual factors such as metabolism. After the procedure, patients may experience residual drowsiness or grogginess for several hours and should arrange for a responsible adult to accompany them home.

Is IV sedation suitable for everyone?

IV sedation may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or allergies to sedative medications. It’s essential to discuss your medical history and any medications you’re taking with your dentist before undergoing IV sedation. Pregnant women and patients with severe respiratory issues may not be candidates for IV sedation. Additionally, happy gas may be offered as an alternative for patients who are not candidates for IV sedation.

We Alleviate Fears through Sedation Dentistry

Our team has a high level of training in sleep dentistry and will work closely with you to give you the appropriate and efficient dental treatment for you. Caring for your dental health today saves you the trouble of having prolonged treatment procedures tomorrow.

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.

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