Sleep Dentistry, Hamilton, Ontario

Does the thought of seeing a dentist cause anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that roughly 15% of the population have anxiety-related dental phobia. This is why our Hamilton sleep dentistry team offers sedation options to ease your nerves so you can receive top dental care treatment.

SLEEP DENTISTRY SERVICES

Also referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is an odourless gas that helps your muscles and nerves relax. You remain completely awake while receiving the gas through a mask, and once the gas is stopped, there are no side effects so you can drive yourself home! There is also oral sedation available but it will need to be taken an hour before your dental treatment is to begin.

IS DENTAL SEDATION THE SAME AS GENERAL ANESTHESIA?

No. Our Hamilton dentist will place a mask (similar to an oxygen mask) over your face and you'll begin to feel the effects shortly. You'll still be awake but be able to respond to questions, unlike general anesthesia which puts you to sleep. There are also no side effects associated with laughing gas like with anesthesia.

WHAT DOES SLEEP DENTISTRY FEEL LIKE?

You should feel very calm and, as the name suggests, somewhat giddy! Nitrous oxide doesn’t impair your ability to think or stay awake, so you’ll be fully conscious while receiving the gas. You may feel as if your limbs are “lighter,” while others report that their bodies feel “heavier” while under sedation. Some people experience a numb sensation inside the mouth.

DENTAL SEDATION FOR PATIENTS WITH ANXIETY IN HAMILTON

Sedation dentistry is designed to help patients relax during their general cleaning, exam or dental procedure. Don’t be embarrassed. There are many reasons patients develop anxiety over dental exams, including the following:

Unpleasant past experience

If patients had an unpleasant experience in the past, it can negatively affect how they view going to the dentist now. Our compassionate staff is glad to reintroduce you to professional dental care. When you visit our comfortable office, we will make sure you have a positive experience this time around so you can improve your oral health in a stress-free environment.

Fear of pain

Fear of pain is a top reason people avoid dentistry in general. Luckily, advancements in techniques and equipment have lead to far less discomfort during dental exams and procedures. Sedation works to help reduce your fear by making you feel calmer and more relaxed.

Embarrassment

Some patients feel ashamed or embarrassed about their teeth and get anxious about having their teeth examined. Exams also require a certain amount of physical closeness with the hygienist or dentist, which can make them feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. We don’t want you to feel embarrassed about your teeth. We work with you to feel much more confident and satisfied with your smile.

Get Your Questions Answered About Sedation Dentistry Today

The health of your teeth and your well-being are important to us and we aim to provide you with a comfortable and positive experience when you visit! Do you have questions about our services or whether dental sedation is right for you?

Give us a call today at 905-545-4833 or email us at [email protected]