Sleep Dentistry

A Clarification of the term Sleep Dentistry

First, we need to clarify the use of the term "sleep dentistry." Many people use this term, but it isn't really accurate as far as what dentists in Alabama are allowed to do. The accurate term would be "conscious sedation dentistry," because it isn't really sleep. Being put to sleep implies general anesthesia, where your breathing has to be maintained artificially. With conscious sedation, however, it is safer because all your protective reflexes are functional.

Having clarified that, sleep dentistry, or to use a more accurate term, conscious sedation dentistry, is very helpful for many people. If you have had bad experiences in the dental chair, it can sometimes be very difficult to bring yourself to get the care you need. This could be your answer.

Dr. Beasley has had extensive training in conscious sedation dentistry.

How Conscious Sedation Dentistry Works

Before treatment, our staff thoroughly reviews your medical history so that any issues that could affect the safety of the procedure are addressed.

On the day of your appointment, you need to arrange for someone to drive you to your appointment and to take you home. Since you will be just waking up from sedation, you won't be able to drive after the appointment. You will then take a single pill an hour before your appointment.

At the office, you will be brought into a comfort room. You'll be covered with a thick, warm blanket and placed on a monitor to closely record your vital signs. Our trained and experienced team members will insure that everything procedes with complete safety, and that you are relaxed and comfortable for the duration of your visit.

During the dental work, you will be in a state of conscious sedation. Unlike hospital anesthesia where a machine is required to breathe for you, all your vital functions and protective reflexes are fully functional, making this an extremely safe technique. And, while you are able to resist the sedation if you choose, if you let yourself go, you may not even remember your appointment.

For more information, please see our main sedation dentistry page.