Sedation Dentistry for the Elderly: Is It Safe?
Have you or a loved one been avoiding dental work due to anxiety, fear, inability to travel to a traditional dental office, or dental phobia? Our caring mobile dentistry team is equipped to handle a variety of difficult dental scenarios.
We use groundbreaking equipment and the latest technology to ensure everyone can receive effective, affordable dental care. One of the most important areas we specialise in is sedation dentistry. Here, we’ll explain how mobile sedation dentistry works and how it can help your loved ones receive the dental care they need.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Our highly trained Australian medical specialists aim to replicate a hospital-like environment to care for and monitor a patient while receiving IV sedation in the comfort of their room.
We utilise modern techniques, medications, and monitoring devices to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care. Our specialists undergo extensive training to learn how to care for patients with complex medical conditions, including comprehensive training in caring for elderly patients. Our mobile dentistry team is adequately prepared to deal with any medical issue that arises during the sedation period.
What Is The Sedation Process Like?
After an anesthetist conducts a thorough medical history and assessment, mobile IV sedation dentistry can be completed. IV sedation, also known as Twilight Sedation, does not require hospitalization and allows a patient to fall asleep quickly and wake up faster compared to general anesthesia.
Patients, in the comfort of their bed, have an intravenous cannula inserted into a vein and gently drift off into a sleep-like state. For the entire procedure, the patient breathes on their own, is continuously monitored, and receives nasal oxygen.
The dental procedure is carried out with no memory to the patient and no distress or pain. The patient wakes calmly and will be numb in the area of dental work due to local anaesthesia administered whilst sedated.
Once the sedation wears off, typically within an hour or so, the patient can eat and drink. Patients typically rest for the remainder of the day following a procedure. Individuals should be back to their usual selves the following day, often sooner.
A post-operative plan is communicated to manage pain relief, diet, and any other concerns.
Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can be a safe, convenient option for individuals who are too stressed or nervous to undergo regular dental visits.
Our mobile dentistry team is fully equipped to provide effectively sedation dentistry in a comfortable, familiar setting to individuals who:
- Are aggressive or uncooperative during dental treatments
- Prefer the comfort of receiving dental treatment while asleep
- Are too nervous, anxious, or scared of dental treatment
- Are cognitively or physically impaired
Which Procedures Can Be Performed During Sedation Dentistry?
- Routine examinations, cleanings, and dental check-ups
- Denture appointments
- Fillings
- Extractions
- X-rays
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for the Elderly?
Australia is one of the safest places in the world to receive Anaesthesia.
Sedation dentistry performed by an experienced, qualified dental team can be a safe, effective way to help elderly patients maintain good dental health.
As with any medication or procedure, patients may experience minor side effects once the medication wears off. The most common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, headaches, and grogginess. These side effects typically wear off within an hour or so.
Do You Have A Loved One In Need of Mobile or Sedation Dentistry?
Our primary focus is to help those who are unable to or find it difficult to travel to traditional dental clinics or undergo dental procedures. Our priority is ensuring everyone receives safe, effective dental care, including patients with complex medical issues or fear of dental treatments.
Using groundbreaking techniques, continued education, and the highest standards, we aim to improve the well-being of our patients and help them achieve optimal dental health.
If you or a loved one avoids dental visits due to anxiety, stress, or inability to travel to a traditional dental office, please contact our caring dentistry team today to learn how we can help.