What is sleep dentistry for All-on-4?
Sleep dentistry is a controlled state of deep relaxation managed by a Specialist Anaesthetist. You drift off, the surgery is completed, and you typically wake with no memory of the procedure. It is commonly used for nervous patients and for longer treatments such as full-arch implants.
If the thought of a dental chair makes your heart race, you are far from alone. Dr Fong, founder of Couture Implant Centre™, has treated more than 3,000 patients who felt the same way before their first consultation. Many had avoided major dental work for years. At our Sunbury and Melton centres, we have designed an experience where you do not need to be brave to get the smile you deserve. Our aim is to make the process manageable for patients who find dental treatment difficult.
Specialist Sleep Dentistry, Done Properly
There is an important distinction between basic sedation and true sleep dentistry. Light sedation can take the edge off, but you remain partly aware throughout the procedure. Sleep dentistry, managed by a Specialist Anaesthetist, is a different level of care altogether.
Led by Specialist Anaesthetists
At our Melton Sleep Centre, we provide sleep dentistry with general anaesthesia led by Specialist Anaesthetists. Your anaesthetic is delivered by the same category of medical specialist who provides anaesthesia in a hospital theatre. It is not numbing, and it is not light sedation. It is a controlled state of deep relaxation managed by a medical specialist whose entire job during your appointment is your comfort and safety. You drift off, and wake once your treatment is complete.
No Sounds, No Pressure, No Memory
Because a specialist is dedicated entirely to your anaesthetic care, you are not aware of the procedure while it takes place. Patients do not hear the sounds of the surgery or feel the pressure of the surgical work, and generally have no recollection of it afterwards. While you sleep, Dr Fong and the surgical team focus entirely on the technical detail of your treatment, placing your premium implants in the positions set out in your digital plan through the AO4 Smile Dental Implant System protocol. The result is a calmer experience for you and a more focused surgical environment for the team.
Suitable for Long Appointments
Full-arch surgery typically takes several hours. Sleep dentistry is particularly well suited to longer appointments like this, because the time simply does not exist for you. You sit down, you drift off, and the next thing you are aware of is recovery. The same option is available for single implants, multiple implants, implant bridge work, and immediate implants, so any patient who would prefer to be asleep through their treatment can be.
More Accessible Than Patients Expect
Many patients are surprised to learn that because we use Specialist Anaesthetists, the comfort of sleep dentistry is more accessible than they assumed. In many cases, the anaesthetist’s fees are partly covered by Medicare, with the rebate depending on the item numbers that apply to your case. The exact rebate depends on your individual circumstances and the length of your procedure, so the team will walk you through the details during your consultation. We believe a calm, closely supervised experience should be within reach for any patient who needs it.
Or General Anaesthesia for Suitable Cases
For patients with particular medical considerations or those who prefer a hospital-style setting, general anaesthesia is also available. The right choice depends on your health history, the length of your treatment, and your personal preference. The team will recommend the option that fits your case during your assessment.
Make the Smile Happen, Calmly
Fear should not be the thing that stands between you and your health. Visit Dr Fong and the team at our Sunbury or Melton centre and ask about Specialist Sleep Dentistry. Let us make your new smile a reality while you rest. Call 03 8338 4377 or book your complimentary consultation online.
