Why do people put off seeing the dentist?
Overseas studies suggest that up to 50% of adults delay or avoid seeing their dentist- often for many years- mainly due to anxiety, fear, or anticipated discomfort. This can lead to advanced tooth and gum problems, reduced function, bad breath, poor cosmetic appearance and unnecessary pain and suffering.
It is established practice to give IV sedation routinely for uncomfortable or invasive medical procedures, such as endoscopy and colonoscopy, to make them comfortable and tolerable.
More recently, both dentists and patients are recognising that uncomfortable or unpleasant dental procedures can be made more pleasant and enjoyable when done under sedation as well.
And although anxiety or fear are the main reasons people choose to have sedation, people can also benefit from Sleep dentistry for a variety of other reasons.
Who can benefit from Sleep dentistry?
Sleep dentistry is beneficial for people who:
- Hate needles and shots
- Have a low pain threshold
- Have difficulty getting numb
- Hate the noises, smells and tastes of dental treatment
- Have had traumatic experiences with dentistry in the past
- Have a strong or ‘hair trigger’ gag reflex (gag easily)
- Have very sensitive teeth or gums
- Are embarrassed about their teeth
- Have jaw problems or difficulty keeping their mouth open
- Have complex dental problems or need long sessions or surgery
- Are busy and wish to have more dental work done in fewer sessions
- Find dental treatments tedious, uncomfortable or boring
- Are fearful and anxious about any aspect of dentistry
How you know you are eligible for Sleep dentistry?
Contact the team at Broadway Dental and they will discuss in more detail the steps you need to take to prepare for Sleep dentistry. The initial step will be to organise a time for you to visit the Broadway Dental practice and discuss your needs and health concerns.
