What Is Sleep Dentistry?

Dr. Eric Hsiao Explains How Sleep Dentistry Offers a Comfortable, Stress-Free Alternative to Traditional Dental Care

What Is Sleep Dentistry?

Sleep dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients feel calm or fall asleep during dental procedures.
There are typically two main types:

1. Twilight (IV) Sedation:
• Performed in a dental clinic or hospital.
• The patient remains conscious but is in a deeply relaxed, dream-like state.
• Most people don’t remember the procedure afterward, though a few may recall vague snippets.
2. General Anaesthetic:
• Administered in a hospital setting.
• The patient is completely unconscious.
• There’s no memory of the procedure at all.

Both options ensure that dental work is completed without the discomfort and anxiety often associated with traditional visits.

Who Is Sleep Dentistry For?

Sleep dentistry can be suitable for a wide range of patients. Here's a breakdown:

• General Anaesthetic: Appropriate for all ages, from children to seniors. It's particularly useful for extensive procedures or for patients with severe dental anxiety.
• Twilight/IV Sedation: Typically recommended for individuals aged 14 and up. It's ideal for those who are nervous, have a strong gag reflex, or require moderate procedures. However, people with severe sleep apnea may not be candidates for this method and could be referred for general anaesthetic instead.

Do Dental Implants Hurt?

Many people are surprised to find that getting an implant is not as painful as expected. If the procedure is straightforward—meaning the implant is placed without additional surgeries—patients often report less discomfort than having a tooth pulled.

However, if extra work is required, like bone or gum grafting, some post-op soreness can occur. Still, modern techniques and proper sedation make it a very manageable process.

Long-Term Outlook: Are Implants Worth It?

Dental implants are known for their longevity. They typically last 15 years or more, making them a solid investment for long-term oral health.

Potential complications are rare but may include:

• Peri-implantitis: A form of gum disease that affects the tissue around the implant.
• Loosening of the crown: Occasionally, the crown attached to the implant may come loose and need tightening or replacement.

Overall, implants are stable, reliable, and very well-tolerated by most patient.

Whether you're anxious about dental procedures or looking for a lasting solution to tooth loss, sleep dentistry offers a calming alternative to traditional dental care. With options tailored to different needs and levels of sedation, you can receive the care you need—comfortably and confidently.