The Truth Behind Sleep Dentistry: Myths and Misconceptions

Sleep dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, is an effective solution for many people who opt for complex treatments.

However, there are many misconceptions about it. These myths can prevent individuals from getting their teeth checked as they are scared of the sedation process. This can affect their oral hygiene in a bad way.

This article debunks the most frequent myths about Sedation Dentistry so that you can get the right facts and avoid any confusion.

What is sleep dentistry?

Sleep dentistry refers to dental procedures done on patients while they are sedated. This can involve everything from mild sedation with nitrous oxide to deeper methods like oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anaesthesia.

It is especially advantageous for dental phobia, complex surgeries like All-On-4 Treatment, and those who cannot tolerate local anaesthesia.

What are the common myths surrounding sedation dentistry?

Myth 1: Sedation is only for those who have dental phobia

Fact: Sedation is generally used for dental phobia and anxiety, but is also helpful in some other conditions. Sedation is useful in long and elaborate procedures or complex operations like the implantation of teeth or extraction of wisdom teeth. It can also be used for patients who are resistant to local anaesthesia or those with sensitive teeth.

Myth 2: There is only one form of sedation

Fact: There are different types of sedation to suit your preferences. A Family Dentist in Warriewood, typically provides the following methods:

Oral Sedation

Moderate to severe, in the form of pills or solution, usually an hour before the actual treatment.

Happy Gas

Moderate conscious sedation using a face mask results in a drowsy, unaware, and painless condition.

IV Sedation

Given intravenously using a cannula, the patient is more relaxed but not unconscious. You may stay awake or fall asleep, depending on how your body and brain react to the stimulus.

General Anesthesia

High general anaesthesia in a hospital environment for major operations where the patient remains fully unconscious.

Myth 3: The patient will suffer and be unable to speak

Fact: During your Dental Checkup and Cleaning, your dentist and anaesthetist make sure you do not feel any discomfort through the use of sleep dentistry. When you are under dental sedation, you will not necessarily be asleep but will be very comfortable. You can also talk to your dentist properly. However, general anaesthesia puts you to sleep and prevents you from feeling anything.

Myth 4: Patient will say or do something stupid

Fact: Sedation Dentistry puts the patients to rest but not in a bizarre way. You may feel dizzy and not recall much of what is said and done but these sedatives will not alter your behaviour. During general anaesthesia, you may speak in an abnormal manner during induction and when you emerge from the unconscious state.

Myth 5: Sedation is only for complicated procedures

Fact: Sleep dentistry is not only for complicated operations. It can be used for simple procedures such as filling a cavity or simply teeth cleaning. The choice of Sedation Dentistry is personalised according to the patient’s condition and treatment.

Conclusion 

It is important to know the truth about sleep dentistry to make sound decisions concerning your dental health.

We are debunking these myths to relieve individuals of any unnecessary anxiety that they may have brewed up in their minds.

For individuals who are anxious about visiting a dentist or require advanced dental treatments, sleep dentistry is a secure and useful alternative.

Talk to your dentist for more information on the right kind of Sedation Dentistry required to make sure you undergo the treatment with no pain or discomfort at all thereby helping you feel at ease.