What is Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep dentistry, also known as Sleep sedation dentistry, is a form of dental care that involves the use of sedatives to increase patient comfort during dental procedures. Sleep dentistry is an option for patients who experience fear, anxiety or discomfort when visiting the dentist.
It’s important to note that sedation isn’t restricted only to invasive dentistry. If you are uncomfortable about any aspect of your dental care, sedation can be a good option to consider.
Our Sedation Options
IV Sedation
IV sedation involves the use of intravenous medication administered by a Specialist Anaesthetist. This sedation technique combines sedative and pain-relieving drugs to create a drowsy, dream-like state.
- What to Expect: You will feel deeply relaxed, warm, and calm throughout the procedure. This state is between being awake and asleep.
- Safety: IV sedation is safer than undergoing general anaesthesia and allows procedures to be completed in the comfort of our clinic.
- Minimal Memory: Most patients remember very little of their dental procedure, making it an ideal choice for those with dental anxiety.
Penthrox
Penthrox is an inhaled sedation option, also known as “the green whistle.” It provides quick and effective pain relief and relaxation.
- How It Works: Penthrox is a hand-held inhaler that delivers a fast-acting sedative to ease discomfort and anxiety.
- Advantages: It is non-invasive, easy to administer, and allows patients to remain conscious but calm during treatment.
The expert team at Beachside Dental ensures that your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Whether you choose IV sedation or Penthrox, you can trust us to provide gentle care tailored to your needs.


What are the benefits of Sleep Dentistry?
Reduction in fear and anxiety – sleep dentistry can alleviate fear and anxiety that is experienced by some patients and increase their level of comfort.
Pain-free procedures – the sedation process means that patients do not feel discomfort during the dental procedure.
Ideal for complex procedures – dental procedures that are long or complicated can be completed in one session which may also reduce the amount of visits required.
Minimise gag reflex – sedation reduces the gag reflex which can make procedures at the back of the mouth more efficient and easier to complete.
Improved oral health – by removing the fear and anxiety from dental visits, patients can maintain a regular dental healthcare plan and take preventative measures to improve longterm oral health.
Reasons to avoid Sleep Dentistry
Patients with specific medical conditions may not be suitable for sleep dentistry. Potential reasons to avoid sleep dentistry are:
Respiratory issues – if you have a condition such as sleep apnea or asthma.
Cardiovascular issues – sedation can affect blood pressure and heart rate.
Allergies to medications – this can lead to side effects such as nausea or headaches.
Pregnancy – sedatives can affect a developing fetus, so dentists recommend avoiding sleep dentistry while pregnant.
Please discuss any pre-existing conditions or concerns with our expert dental team during your consultation so we can determine if sleep dentistry is right for you.
Do you offer sleep dentistry near me?
Yes, Beachside Dental is located in Frankston and we offer sleep dentistry to residents in Frankston and to the Mornington Peninsula community including (but not limited to) the suburbs of: Mornington, Frankston North, Seaford, Skye, Carrum Downs, Langwarrin South & Mt Eliza.
Interested in Sleep dentistry? Contact us today for a consultation & never worry about visiting the dentist again!
Our team of experts at Beachside Dental know how important it is for patients to feel relaxed during any procedure. This is why we are pleased to be able to offer sleep sedation as an option to patients. The dental professionals at Beachside Dental are very experienced in the use of sedation during dental procedures. They use this experience to help provide an exceptional level of care to all patients, making all their dental procedures as stress-free as possible.
Contact us today to chat with our friendly team on (03) 9781 3633 or send us a message below to organise a consultation.


Sleep Dentistry FAQs
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Is sleep dentistry safe?
Yes- sleep sedation dentistry is completely safe. Here at Beachside Dental Clinic we have an anaesthetist and registered nurse to administer it during sleep sedation dentistry.
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Will I feel any pain during sleep sedation dentistry?
No – you will not feel any pain during sleep sedation dentistry.
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Are there side effects of sleep dentistry?
Some patients do experience side effects after sleep sedation dentistry including drowsiness, slow reflexes, headaches and nausea. However many patients experience no side effects whatsoever.
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How should I prepare for a sleep dentistry procedure?
Avoid food or drink for several hours prior to the procedure. Our expert dental team will provide details during your consultation.
Arrange for transport to and from the appointment as sedation will prohibit the ability to drive a vehicle.
Advise the dentist about any medical conditions you may have prior to the procedure so our team can minimise any potential risks.
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How long does it take for the effects of sedation to wear off?
Your recovery time from sedation will depend on the type of sedation:
Nitrous Oxide: in most cases, nitrous oxide is cleared from your system within 30 minutes to an hour.
Oral or IV Sedation: It may take several hours for the effects to wear off so you should avoid driving or operating machinery for 24 hours.
General Anesthesia: Recovery may take over 24 hours and you will need someone to accompany you home. -
Are there risks associated with sleep dentistry?
Sleep dentistry is generally safe if performed by an experienced dental professional but there are some potential risks which can include:
Drowsiness or dizziness after the procedure – more common with IV sedation.
Nausea and/or headaches – also more common with IV sedation.
Allergic reactions to sedatives – although this would likely be identified as a risk factor during your consultation.
Respiratory issues – this generally occurs with patients who have existing respiratory conditions.