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Nitrous Oxide is a colourless and virtually odourless gas with a faint, sweet smell. It is a safe and effective sedative agent which is mixed with oxygen and administered through a mask that fits over your nose.
Happy gas is useful for patients who
Nitrous oxide, the perfect alternative to a sleep gas, is used at our clinic in Geelong to help patients feel less anxious during their dental treatment. The advantages of Nitrous oxide are that it is easy to receive, continuous and uninterrupted flow, with quick and reliable recovery. This means you are fine to go about your normal activities or back to work after your dental procedure.
Penthrox inhalation sedation, also know as the “green whistle” is ideal for patients who feel slightly anxious whilst undergoing dental treatment. It is a safe and easy method of providing immediate relief from pain and anxiety – you may have seen it being used on the TV show Bondi Rescue.
Just like utilizing sleep gas, Penthrox sedation at our Geelong clinic is simple and convenient. As the patient all you need to do is take a breath from the whistle when you are starting to feel anxious and need more relief. You will be awake and aware of your surroundings whilst using Penthrox but in a relaxed and calm state whilst in the dental chair. There is minimal downtime and after treatment is completed you can drive home and go about your daily activities.
If you are not very fond of receiving any dental treatment, or if you have had any previous traumatic experience which makes it difficult for you to seek dental care, then do not worry!
We provide Sleep Dentistry services where an anaesthetist administers specific medications to induce our patients into a sleep, ensuring you feel comfortable and at ease during treatment.
Our specially trained sedationist or anaesthetist goes through a thorough medical check prior to any treatment. They will then administer the medication in gradual increments throughout the duration of treatment.
Some frequently asked questions are below:
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Before any sedative medication is administered, you will have a consultation with our Principal Dentist and also a specialized sedationist to review your medical history. Everything is conducted within very safe parameters and you are closely monitored throughout the sedation.
Can I Drive Home After Being Sedated?
No, unfortunately due to the medications that are used during the procedure you are unable to drive afterwards. You will need to arrange for transport prior to commencing. After the procedure it may take up to 24 hours for the medication to fully wear off. It is recommended that you not operate any heavy machinery during this time.
What Does Feeling Sedated Feel Like?
Sedation has similar effects to that of a sleep gas. At the end of the treatment, you’ll likely have little memory of sitting in the dentist chair. When sedated, you will feel limp, relaxed, and lethargic.
General anaesthesia is a state of controlled unconsciousness. During a general anaesthetic, medicines are used to put you to sleep, so you are unconscious during your dental surgery and do not feel pain while it is carried out.
General anaesthesia is essential for some surgical procedures where it may be safer or more comfortable for you to be unconscious. It’s usually used for long operations or those that would otherwise be very painful.
Before having an operation, you’ll meet a specialist doctor called an anaesthetist to discuss which anaesthetic is most suitable for you.
Your anaesthetist will examine your medical history prior to your dental surgery, this includes
Your anaesthetist can answer any questions you have prior to your dental procedure. They will also provide you with clear fasting instructions prior to your operation.
Your anaesthetist will stay with you throughout the dental procedure. They’ll make sure you continue to receive the anaesthetic and that you remain in a controlled state of unconsciousness.
Upon completion of your surgery by your dentist, the anaesthetist will begin your recovery from the general anaesthetic.
General anaesthetics can affect your memory, concentration and reflexes for up to two days after your procedure, therefore you;
General anaesthesia has a few common side effects, most occur immediately after your operation and do not last long. Your anaesthetist will advise you of what to expect at your initial consultation.
*Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks, the clinicians at Dentists & Doctors will be happy to discuss all risks associated with any procedure prior to your treatment
Do you have questions about our dental services? We’re here to help! Check out the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions, or browse through the list below for more information.
