Instructions for Sedation

Sedation dentistry refers to the use of sedation during dental treatment. While sedated, you are still conscious, you maintain all of your protective reflexes like swallowing, breathing, coughing, and you can even walk to the bathroom if necessary. However, all your anxieties about dental care are removed. Most people remember very little about their visit except that all their dental work was completed while they were sedated. Drugs are given by taking small pills which create a state of deep relaxation and amnesia. You will be free of anxiety, may lose sense of time, and have little memory of the procedure.

This is an excellent commodity for an apprehensive patient for any dental procedure, or a patient undergoing a surgical procedure. During this process, the patient is continually monitored with automatic blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels. The patient cannot drive after this procedure.

Take all medication as prescribed.

• No stimulants for 12 hours before appointment (i.e. caffeine).
• You should not eat at all prior to your appointment.
• If you appointment is in the late afternoon, you may have a light breakfast (i.e. toast and some type of protein). Late afternoon appointments; please do not eat anything three hours before appointment. If you are a diabectic, this may not apply to you.
• You may take the medication with a glass of water or orange juice, however no grapefruit juice please. Wear something comfortable (i.e. sweatpants and sweatshirt).
• Please remove any fingernail polish for this appointment, as it interferes with heart rate/oxygen monitoring.

Things to expect after treatment:

• It is normal to sleep or be sleepy for the rest of the day.
• For a period of 12 hours, patient may not remember events or conversations.
• No driving for 12 hours after appointment.
• No operating hazardous devices.
• Avoid heavy lifting.
• Avoid climbing stairs.
• Important decisions should NOT be made.
• Drink plenty of fluids as soon as possible.
• Patient should be attended to at all times –Do not trust him/her alone.
• Attendee should hold patients arm when walking.