When you’re facing numerous dental procedures or you suffer from dental anxiety, it’s difficult to explain to others what it feels like. You may be scared of the unknown, or perhaps you experienced negative dental visits as a child.
Fortunately, we offer IV sedation at our Prahran dental clinic so you can get the efficient, comfortable care you deserve.
So, how do you know if you should choose IV sedation or general anaesthesia?
Understanding the Role of Dental Sedation
Dental sedation plays a critical role in patient care; it allows us to provide necessary dental treatment to patients with:
- A strong gag reflex
- Dental anxiety
- Low pain tolerance
- Special needs
- Difficulty sitting still
- Numerous dental concerns
IV Sedation: The Conscious Comfort Option
We refer to our IV sedation as ‘twilight sleep’ because it places you in a deep, relaxed state. You’ll be unaware of what’s happening during treatment, but you’ll still be responsive. Many patients say they feel like they’re taking a nap.
You’ll be able to answer our questions and follow prompts, allowing us to restore your oral health without worry or stress.
General Anaesthesia: Reserved for Full Unconsciousness
General anaesthesia is different from IV sedation in that you are completely unconscious during treatment. It is an artificially induced deep sleep, so you’ll be unaware of what’s happening and have no recollection of your procedures.
Comparison and Next Steps at Lifetime Dental
Our IV sedation is performed at our dental clinic and is administered intravenously by a skilled anaesthetist who closely monitors you throughout your visit.
General anaesthesia is often administered at a hospital or surgical facility. An anaesthesiologist administers it, and it can require more recovery time.
When you visit us for a consultation, we’ll perform a thorough examination and discuss your medical history. We’ll also assess any anxiety or other concerns before helping you make an informed decision.
Interested in Sleep Dentistry in Prahran, VIC?
To learn more about IV sedation in Prahran and the surrounding area, feel free to reach out to our experienced dental team! At Lifetime Dental, we’ll happily sit down with you, explain your sedation options and help you make the best decision for your smile.
If you’d like to book a visit with us, we welcome your call on (03) 9510 1644.
