Sleep Dentistry
For some patients, sitting in the dental chair can be overwhelming. At Liberty Dental in Wheelers Hill and Mount Waverley, we offer Sleep Dentistry with sedation and in-house general anaesthesia to support anxious patients in receiving essential treatment.
When Fear Becomes the Biggest Barrier
Dental fear is more common than most people realise. It can stem from past trauma, anxiety disorders, or simply the fear of discomfort or losing control. Sleep Dentistry offers a different kind of care pathway, reducing fear by allowing treatment under anaesthesia by allowing you to receive treatment while fully asleep under the care of a medical anaesthetist. We provide both sedation dentistry (lighter forms of sedation) and general anaesthesia (for more complex or deeply anxious patients) in-house, so you are cared for in a way suited to your needs.
Sedation Dentistry
vs. Sleep Dentistry
It’s important to differentiate between sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry.
Sedation Dentistry typically involves mild sedation (oral sedatives or nitrous oxide), keeping you relaxed while awake, aware, and able to respond to instructions. It’s often used for patients with mild anxiety or for less invasive treatments.
Sleep Dentistry, on the other hand, involves general anaesthesia, where the patient is fully unconscious during the procedure. This is commonly used for patients with severe dental anxiety, requiring extensive work, or preferring to be completely unaware during their treatment. At Liberty Dental, we offer in-house general anaesthesia for a monitored and convenient alternative to hospital referrals.
It’s important to differentiate between sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry.
Sedation Dentistry typically involves mild sedation (oral sedatives or nitrous oxide), keeping you relaxed while awake, aware, and able to respond to instructions. It’s often used for patients with mild anxiety or for less invasive treatments.
Sleep Dentistry, on the other hand, involves general anaesthesia, where the patient is fully unconscious during the procedure. This is commonly used for patients with severe dental anxiety, requiring extensive work, or preferring to be completely unaware during their treatment. At Liberty Dental, we offer in-house general anaesthesia for a monitored and convenient alternative to hospital referrals.
When Sleep Dentistry May Be Appropriate
Sleep Dentistry is specifically designed for patients who avoid dental treatment due to anxiety, past trauma, or emotional overwhelm. It is not about preference or convenience. It is about making essential care possible for those who cannot tolerate conventional dental settings, even with sedation or supportive strategies in place.
You may benefit if you:
- Feel physically sick or panicked at the idea of treatment
- Have not seen a dentist in years due to fear
- Cannot tolerate even gentle cleanings
- Experience flashbacks or past trauma in dental settings
- Want everything done in one visit, with little to no memory
- Have had failed sedation or coping strategies in the past
We understand that fear is not weakness. For many, it is a protective response to past experiences. Sleep Dentistry creates space for safety, dignity, and healing. So, you can finally receive the care you need, in a way that feels possible for you.
Your Sleep Dentistry Journey
Here is what to expect when choosing Sleep Dentistry at Liberty Dental.
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The First Conversation
We start with a relaxed consultation in the clinic. No treatment, no pressure. Just a conversation to understand your fears, goals, and what you need to feel safe.
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Careful Examination and Planning
If you are comfortable, we perform a brief, no-contact exam and take necessary images to assess your dental needs. All treatment planning is done around what you can tolerate.
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Coordination with Our In-House Team
If Sleep Dentistry is right for you, we coordinate directly with our in-house licensed anaesthetist. You will receive full support with medical preparation and scheduling, all at our Liberty Dental clinics.
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The Day of Treatment
On the day of treatment, you’ll be anaesthetised in our in-house facility. We complete your treatment while you are completely asleep, sometimes in a single session, depending on needs.
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Recovery and Aftercare
After treatment, you will wake in a recovery room under nurse supervision. Once cleared by our medical team, you will return home with clear instructions and support from both us and your loved ones.
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A New Beginning
We welcome you back into regular care at your own pace. No judgment. You are not expected to get over fear. You are simply supported in whatever way you need.
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Trusted by Smiles Across Wheelers Hill and Mount Waverley
Dr Anyda was very professional and caring. Ensured I felt comfortable and put me at ease throughout the crown procedure.Helen P.
Very nice staffs, very professional doctors, highly recommend!
Steph L.
Dr Marian is a highly skilled Dentist and very knowledgeable in her profession. I highly recommend Liberty Dental for total care and service .
Peta B.
Great atmosphere and real care for people.
Cheryl C.
Amazing dentists and dental assistants, highly recommend
Cassandra Y.
Nursing and reception staff were lovely. Dr Joyce was very gentle. Thank you!
Elaine L.
5 stars dentist
Dr Marian is excellentEngy T.
Dr Marian is very professional and caring. Her service is impeccable.
Indi S.
Great team and excellent dental work.
Jessica M.
The service was excellent and the dentist is very patient and knowledgeable. I can also say that the information provided was a learning curve for me. Excellent job , well done team
Linda T.
Helen P.
Very nice staffs, very professional doctors, highly recommend!
Steph L.
Dr Marian is a highly skilled Dentist and very knowledgeable in her profession. I highly recommend Liberty Dental for total care and service .
Peta B.
Great atmosphere and real care for people.
Cheryl C.
Amazing dentists and dental assistants, highly recommend
Cassandra Y.
Nursing and reception staff were lovely. Dr Joyce was very gentle. Thank you!
Elaine L.
5 stars dentist
Dr Marian is excellent
Engy T.
Dr Marian is very professional and caring. Her service is impeccable.
Indi S.
Great team and excellent dental work.
Jessica M.
The service was excellent and the dentist is very patient and knowledgeable. I can also say that the information provided was a learning curve for me. Excellent job , well done team
Linda T.
Risks and Recovery
Sleep Dentistry involves general anaesthesia and, like all medical procedures, it carries risks. Recovery time differs between patients and depends on the type of treatment performed.
Possible short-term effects include:
- Drowsiness, dizziness, or nausea after anaesthesia
- Sore throat from the breathing tube
- Temporary confusion or delayed reaction times
Potential risks and limitations include:
- Adverse reactions to medications (rare but possible)
- Breathing or heart complications during or after anaesthesia
- Need for medical clearance prior to the procedure
- Requirement for a support person, as driving or work is not recommended immediately after
Most patients recover within 24 hours, but your dentist and anaesthetist will give personalised guidance for aftercare and follow-up.
Transparent Care, Tailored for You
Curious about your options? Download our new patient guide to explore treatments crafted for every stage of your smile journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sleep Dentistry only for people with anxiety?
Mostly, yes. While it is sometimes used for medical or behavioural conditions, Sleep Dentistry is primarily offered to help those with deep dental fear access care without trauma. Our focus is not just physical treatment, but emotional safety, especially for patients who have avoided care for many years.
Will I remember anything?
Sleep Dentistry at Liberty Dental involves general anaesthesia, where you are fully unconscious and typically will not recall the procedure. This is different from IV sedation, where you are very drowsy but may remember parts of treatment, and nitrous oxide (“happy gas”), which simply relaxes you and wears off quickly.
Your care under general anaesthetic is delivered in our in-house facility and monitored throughout by a licensed anaesthetist.
Can I come back to regular treatment afterward?
Yes. Many patients use Sleep Dentistry as a stepping stone to regular care. Once trust is built and oral health is stabilised, we work at your pace to gently transition you back into in-chair treatment when and if you are ready.
The Liberty Standard
“Your mouth is the gateway to your body, caring for your smile is caring for your health”
Expert Advice From Good Human Beings Who Genuinely Care
Owner and Principal Dentist Dr Marian tells her patients she gives the same thoughtful, considered advice that she would give her closest family member. And she truly means it.
The Only Dentist You’ll Ever Need
Whether you’re looking for your child’s first dental check-up, planning aesthetic improvements, or restoring function – we’re here to help you and your family at all stages of life. If it matters to you, we can explore it together.
Passion for Our Community
We’re 100% committed to giving back in any way we can – as a team and individuals.
The Highest Quality Materials in the Most Skilled Hands
Not all dental materials are created equal. We only use the highest-grade materials imported from Germany and Japan.
So you can trust the quality of our work.
Related General Services
A Different Kind of Dental Care
You are not broken. You are not weak. And you are not alone. Sleep dentistry provides a considerate and private path back to oral health. If you have been putting it off for years, we are here when you are ready.
