Sedation Dentistry

Although many patients feel nervous or anxious when visiting the dentist, some require a little more help to make them feel relaxed and comfortable. At DentalCareXtra and KIDS, our team understands that it is normal to have those feelings. That is why we offer Sedation Dentistry services so that your experience will be as positive as possible. 

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry, or “sleep dentistry,” helps you to feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures, and is highly beneficial for patients with dental anxiety or those who are undergoing a lengthy treatment. A moderate form of sedation, it is sometimes called “twilight sleep” as you are still technically awake, although feeling very carefree. 

Based on your unique dental care needs, we offer two (2) main types of Sedation Dentistry: Happy Gas and General Anaesthesia (anaesthetic treatment undertaken at Mackay Specialist Day Hospital*

Happy Gas

As a lighter sedation method, nitrous oxide, or “Happy Gas,” is inhaled through a mask or nosepiece. The calming effects begin within as little as three (3) to five (5) minutes as your dentist carefully controls the amount of sedation you receive and adjusts dosages accordingly during the procedure. Once your treatment is over, your dentist gives you pure oxygen to flush the Happy Gas out of your system. In most cases, you’ll be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. 

General Anaesthesia

General Anaesthesia is the deepest form of sedation that we offer. During this procedure, sedative medications go directly into your bloodstream through an IV line. Once you are under general sedation, you are monitored closely in a medical environment by an anaesthetist.

Most patients who receive General Anaesthia fall asleep and have no memory of their treatment when they wake up. This sedation method is the best option for patients with severe dental anxiety, people with specific requirements (disabilities, special needs, etc.), or those who are undergoing lengthy procedures.

Note: DentalCareXtra is the only provider to have a regular fortnightly schedule in the Mackay Specialist Day Hospital for general dentistry procedures. 

Is Happy Gas Dentistry Safe?

All our lighter Sedation Dentistry treatments – including Happy Gas or tablets – are carefully monitored by our dentist to ensure your safety and comfort. When General Anaesthesia is used, the treatment is carried out under the supervision of a licensed anaesthetist at Mackay Specialist Day Hospital.

Is it safe for kids?

Yes. Happy Gas is safe for patients over 4 years old. At DentalCareXtra and KIDS, we are also proud of the fact that we are the only provider of General Anaesthesia Sedation Dentistry treatments in this region for children 12-and-under.

What Treatment Can Be Done?

You do not have to have a complex or lengthy procedure scheduled to take advantage of our safe and effective Sedation Dentistry options. Depending on your oral care needs and level of dental phobia, our highly trained dentists can perform these treatments and procedures while you are under dental sedation:

• Diagnostic services - X-rays, intraoral imaging, and comprehensive exams
• Preventative services - Cleanings, sealants, etc.
• Restorative and cosmetic treatments -  Fillings, crowns, dental implants, root canal therapy, etc.
• Oral surgery - Tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, etc.
• Minor orthodontic treatments - Space maintainers, orthodontic appliances, etc.
• Laser gum surgery - Frenectomies, tongue-tie release, and gingivectomies 

Note: Our General Anaesthetic Dental Care at the Mackay Specialist Day Hospital is ideal for patients who choose to have a range of treatment undertaken at the same time. It’s a great way to care for your oral health if you are anxious, or if the treatment is more extensive or requires multiple visits.

*Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

People Who Can Benefit from Sleep Dentistry

People of all ages can benefit from Sedation Dentistry, including children. At DentalCareXtra and KIDS, our dentists may recommend sleep dentistry for patients with:

• A fear of visiting the dentist (dental phobia)
• Extreme teeth sensitivity
• Difficulty controlling movements
• An overly sensitive gag reflex
• Special physical, cognitive, or behavioural needs
• Feelings of claustrophobia while in the dental chair
• A fear of needles
• Decreased sensitivity to local anaesthesia 

Cost of Sedation Dentistry

For the average patient, Happy Gas costs $195 per UP TO 60 minutes. The cost of General Anaesthesia depends on factors that include the time required to complete the dental procedure and an estimate will be provided by the treating anesthetist.

Call Us Today

At DentalCareXtra, we are proud of the fact that our skilled dentists can care for patients in all three (3) of our practices (Mackay, Marian and Moranbah) for those who need Sedation Dentistry. If you suffer from dental phobia or might otherwise benefit from our safe and effective sleep dentistry services, contact us today and chat with one of our friendly team members. They will be able to provide you with the best treatment options and outcomes based on your individual oral health care needs.