How to Prepare for a Sedation Dentistry Procedure

Dental anxiety is an extremely common condition among American adults. Sedation dentistry is frequently used as an option to help settle patients' nerves and ensure they do not skip critical appointments and procedures out of stress or fear. 

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the use of medication to relax a patient during a dental procedure. The medicine is administered orally, through an IV, or by breathing a gas. Good candidates for sedation dentistry include individuals with anxiety at moderate to high levels or a highly reactive gag reflex, and those requiring multiple or more invasive dental procedures. 

Sedation through an IV or taken orally is beneficial because it enables the patient to relax and remain pain-free and cooperative through an extended period. In addition, the medication may create an amnesia effect, so patients do not have memory of the procedure upon waking.

How to prepare for sedation dentistry

Because sedation dentistry will affect your mental faculties, it requires more extensive preparation than a typical dentist visit. 

Eating, drinking, and medications

This is one of the most important guidelines to follow when preparing for sedation dentistry. Current guidelines include the following:

• Do not eat food or dairy products within six hours of the scheduled appointment.
• Clear liquids may be consumed up to two hours before the appointment.
• All medications should be taken as prescribed, unless otherwise directed.
• Report all medications to your dentist, including prescriptions and over-the-counter products.

Clothing

It is important for you to be comfortable during your visit, so many dentists recommend wearing pajamas or loose-fitting loungewear. If the weather is colder, consider a light jacket over a loose under-layer. Keep in mind that the dental technician may need access to your arms and legs to administer medication and monitor your condition. Avoid tight-fitting clothing, belts, or extra tight-fitting layers, which make such access more difficult. Patients are also recommended to bring an extra set of clothing just in case the need arises.

Hair

Consider your sedation dentistry appointment a free pass on getting ready in the morning. The optimal patient for sedation arrives at the office with dry hair that is worn loose or up in a high ponytail. Hair ties, rubber bands, scrunchies, barrettes, and other devices in the hair can create injury or cause issues in the positioning of the head.

Accessories

Accessories may be attractive in everyday life, but they are a hindrance during a sedation procedure. Avoid watches, multiple rings, and bracelets. The color of the nail bed during a procedure is a typical sign that professionals keep an eye on during sedation, so avoid artificial nails and nail polish, which can interfere with the monitoring process.

Conclusion

Sedation dentistry is a common procedure that is immensely helpful for those who experience dental anxiety or for those undergoing painful or extensive procedures. Talk with your dentist if you believe that sedation dentistry is a good option for your situation. Once you schedule your procedure, be sure to follow all of the professional recommendations you are given to properly prepare for your visit.

Request an appointment here: https://siegertdental.com or call Siegert Dental at (608) 394-3943 for an appointment in our Onalaska office.

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