How Sleep Dentistry Can Make Your Next Visit Stress-Free

If fear has kept you from getting the dental care you need, sleep dentistry may be the perfect solution. Contact us today to schedule.

For many people, the thought of going to the dentist brings feelings of anxiety, fear, or discomfort. Avoiding the dentist can lead to serious oral health issues, whether it’s due to a previous traumatic experience, a strong gag reflex, or general uneasiness about dental procedures. But what if you could sleep through your entire visit?

This is exactly what sleep dentistry offers—a completely stress-free way to receive the dental care you need without anxiety, pain, or discomfort.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry

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Mandy Z.

I have NEVER had a positive experience with dentist…until now!! I was mind blown how kind the staff was, not just to me but to everyone! I have debilitating anxiety when it comes to dentists because of bad previous experiences, so I was very nervous. But, all the staff, including Dr. Thom, were very gentle, kind, and understanding. They took time to listen to all my concerns and address them, helping to put me at ease. I was also amazed how professional the whole office ran and how completely reliable they were. They easily guided me through the process and everything went so smoothly, including my sedation. I have never been treated so kindly by any dental office before, I was struggling to believe I wasn’t in some kind of dream. But. They really were that nice.

My recovery from sedation and all
The dental work they did to save my tooth was amazing, not a single issue! Dr. Thom even called personally to check on me a day later.

Coming back to put my permanent crown in was the same experience. They were all so kind,
Good about explaining everything they were doing and make the experience light and dare I say…fun.

I would drive 2.5 hours again in a heartbeat to do my work here. Best dental experience I’ve ever
had hands down!!!!!!! Thank you Dr. Thom for giving my life and tooth back. I’m so excited to not be in so much excruciating pain anymore!

Response from the owner:We can’t thank you enough for your kind and heartfelt words. Our entire team is dedicated to creating a gentle, supportive, and positive experience for every patient, so it means the world to hear your visit felt that way. We’re so glad you felt cared for and comfortable throughout the process, and we truly appreciate you making the trip to see us. Thank you for trusting us—it’s an honor to care for patients like you!

Dianne B.

Dr. Hoffmann and his team takes great care of my special needs daughter. We have been coming here for over 20 years. The staff is so kind and patient with her and explains everything to help her stay calm.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words and for trusting our team for so many years. We’re honored to care for your family and appreciate the opportunity to make each visit a positive experience.

Anna C.

I have had the best experience with Dr Behl and her staff! I have awful dental anxiety from some past experiences and they are so kind and supportive. Rebecca is incredible to work with. I highly recommend them to everyone I know!!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words! We’re happy to know you felt supported and comfortable during your visit. Our team strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.

Jana A.

We always receive excellent care at the Dental Anesthesia Center.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We truly appreciate your trust in our team and are grateful for the opportunity to provide care.

pnkldy74

Our adult daughter has cerebral palsy and requires being fully sedated when having anything done. The DAC was such a positive experience. Dr Hoffmann and his staff were kind and did great explaining things. As a mom, I had a lot of questions about how certain things would be done as usually she’s in her chair when getting examined at her local dentist and they had everything under control including transferring from her chair to the dentist chair and keeping her secured in the dentist chair as well as keeping her neck and legs comfortable. Many thanks to them!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re grateful for your trust and happy to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Our goal is always to provide compassionate, attentive care in a safe and comfortable environment. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

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What Is Sleep Dentistry?

Sleep dentistry, or sedation dentistry, involves using medication to help patients relax or sleep during dental procedures. While many people assume it means being “fully asleep,” there are different levels of sedation, depending on the patient’s needs.

Types of Sedation in Sleep Dentistry:

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): A mild sedative that helps you relax while remaining awake.
• Oral Sedation: A pill taken before the procedure that induces deep relaxation.
• IV Sedation: Administered through an IV, allowing for a deeper level of relaxation where you may not remember the procedure.
• General Anesthesia: A complete sleep state where you are unconscious, typically used for extensive procedures or patients with severe anxiety.

Who Can Benefit from Sleep Dentistry?

Sleep dentistry isn’t just for people with extreme dental phobia. It is beneficial for:

• Patients with dental anxiety or phobia
• Those with a strong gag reflex
• Individuals with special needs or sensory sensitivities
• Patients undergoing lengthy or complex procedures
• People with difficulty sitting still for long periods
• Anyone with a low pain tolerance

How Sleep Dentistry Makes Your Visit Stress-Free

1. No Anxiety or Fear

One of the biggest advantages of sleep dentistry is that it eliminates dental anxiety. Whether you’re mildly nervous or have a severe phobia, sedation ensures that you feel calm and comfortable throughout your appointment.

2. Pain-Free Experience

Most people avoid the dentist due to fear of pain. With sedation, you won’t feel a thing! Your dentist will also use local anesthesia to ensure complete numbness, but with sedation, you’ll be far more relaxed or unaware of the procedure.

3. Time Flies By

For patients undergoing long or multiple procedures, sedation dentistry helps the time pass quickly. Many patients feel like their treatment was completed in just minutes.

4. Fewer Appointments

Because sedation allows dentists to work more efficiently, multiple procedures can often be completed in one visit. This reduces the number of appointments needed and minimizes stress.

5. Ideal for Patients with Special Needs

For patients with autism, sensory sensitivities, or physical disabilities, sleep dentistry provides a way to receive necessary care without distress or discomfort.

What to Expect When Choosing Sleep Dentistry

Before Your Appointment:

• You’ll have a consultation to discuss your medical history and anxiety level.
• Your dentist will determine the best sedation method for you.
• If taking oral sedation or undergoing IV sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from the appointment.

During the Procedure:

• You’ll be given the sedation medication based on your selected level.
• Depending on the sedation type, you may feel relaxed, drowsy, or completely asleep.
• The dental team will monitor you throughout to ensure safety and comfort.

After Your Visit:

• You may feel groggy if you had oral or IV sedation, so resting is recommended.
• Avoid driving for 24 hours if deep sedation or general anesthesia was used.
• Most patients experience little to no memory of the procedure.

Is Sleep Dentistry Safe?

Yes! Sleep dentistry is extremely safe when administered by trained professionals. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, our specialists are certified in sedation and anesthesia, ensuring you receive the safest, most comfortable care possible.