Too Anxious for Dental Implants? Here's How Sleep Dentistry May Help

Visiting the dentist isn’t exactly at the top of people’s favourite things to do lists. We get it. It’s no surprise that many people put off dental work due to fear or anxiety. If you have missing teeth and would like to restore your smile, but feel nervous about oral surgery, we understand.

Now for the good news: sleep dentistry is available at Grand Promenade Dental Centre, making it possible for even the most nervous patients to receive implant care comfortably. But before we get into how it works, it’s worth understanding why so many people hesitate in the first place.

Why Some Patients Avoid Dental Implants

There are plenty of reasons people are reluctant to move forward with implants:

• Past negative experiences at the dentist
• Fear of pain or needles
• Sensory triggers (like the sound of a drill)
• Trouble sitting still or managing a strong gag reflex
• Embarrassment about their oral health

If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and we’re here to help.

What Is Sleep Dentistry?

Sleep dentistry typically involves IV sedation or general anaesthesia. While local anaesthetic only numbs the area, and nitrous oxide offers light relaxation, IV sedation creates a deeper, dream-like state. You’re still breathing on your own, but won’t feel or remember a thing.

With careful monitoring provided at every stage to help you feel at ease, this option can make even complex procedures feel more manageable.

For more involved cases, general anaesthesia may be used in a hospital setting. Dr Anthony Giummarra (Dentist) is accredited to provide this option when needed.

How Sedation Works With Dental Implants

After your consultation and you’ve been cleared medically, we’ll schedule your dental implant procedure. Under IV sedation, multiple implants can often be placed in a single session. After the appointment, you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a short time while you rest.

Is Sleep Dentistry the Right Fit?

This approach may be ideal if you:

• Have high dental anxiety
• Need a complex or lengthy procedure
• Have a low pain threshold
• Have a medical condition that makes staying still difficult