“Sleep dentistry allows patients to receive dental treatment while feeling completely relaxed or asleep, depending on the type of sedation that's appropriate for them,” The House of Smile Design dentist Kritika Mehra said.
“At The House of Smile Design, we work closely with experienced anaesthetists to provide treatment under general anaesthetic or oral sedation when clinically appropriate.”
The approach is particularly suited to patients with severe dental anxiety, complex treatment needs, strong gag reflexes, special needs, or those requiring multiple procedures in a single appointment.
For patients undergoing a general anaesthetic, a qualified anaesthetist monitors heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels and blood pressure throughout the procedure.
Once your treatment is complete, you'll wake up in recovery, where you will be monitored until you are ready to go home with a responsible adult.
When it comes to children, Dr Mehra said sedation was not always necessary.
“Our goal is always to build confidence rather than create fear, so whenever possible, we encourage positive dental experiences without the need for sedation,” she said.
However, she noted that children with significant dental anxiety, extensive treatment needs, special medical conditions, or those too young to safely co-operate may be candidates for treatment under a general anaesthetic, subject to their age, medical history and individual circumstances.
In more complex cases, referral to a specialist paediatric dentist may be recommended.
Patients are urged to disclose their full medical history before any procedure.
“Please bring an up-to-date list of all medications you're currently taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements,” Dr Mehra said.
“Some medications can influence healing, bleeding, infection risk or interact with sedation and anaesthetic medications.'
The House of Smile Design dentistry philosophy goes beyond simply fixing teeth.
“Rather than simply fixing teeth, we focus on designing healthy, functional smiles that are made to last,” Dr Mehra said.
“Many of our patients tell us they appreciate that we never make them feel pressured.
“We believe trust is earned through honesty, communication and consistency.”
Dr Mehra's personal approach to dentistry is rooted in understanding the patient as a whole.
“Dentistry has never just been about fixing teeth for me,” she said.
“My passion is understanding people first and teeth second.”
On the broader importance of oral health, Dr Mehra said a healthy smile supports eating, speaking and overall wellbeing.
“We often say that prevention is always easier than repair,” she said.
“A healthy smile also gives many people confidence and confidence has a way of positively influencing every part of life.”
The practice accepts most major private health funds and offers HICAPS claiming, allowing eligible patients to claim their rebate on the day of treatment.
The team at House of Smile Design is always happy to provide treatment estimates beforehand so you'll clearly understand any out-of-pocket expenses.
“At The House of Smile Design, we believe every patient deserves to feel informed, respected and genuinely cared for,” Dr Mehra said.
“We want you to leave not only with a healthier smile, but with complete confidence that you've made the right decision for your long-term health.”
For a list of dental services offered by The House of Smile Design or to book an appointment, go to thehouseofsmiledesign.com.au
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