So you need to have an oral procedure done – what a bummer! At Brockport Dental, we know that the idea of having a procedure done can make you feel uneasy, especially if your procedure requires sedation. Now, there are some factors that can affect how the sedation affects you. We have compiled a list of tricks and tips to ensure that you have the best experience possible.
Preparing for Your Procedure
First of all, oral sedation may not be the best option. Novocain can be just as effective as sedation in many cases. However, most people choose sedation because they are afraid of needles. We won’t lie to you – certain shots of Novocain can be uncomfortable, depending on the area where it is being done, but it can sometimes be more cost-effective and even be easier for both you and your dentist to complete the procedure.
If you know that you require full sedation, you may need to avoid eating and drinking in the days and hours leading up to your procedure. The amount food and liquid in your stomach will often affect how well sedatives work, and we often will recommend not eating or drinking within the six hours prior to your appointment. Specific foods may also need to be avoided. For example, grapefruit juice has been known to conflict with your metabolism when it comes to breaking down sedation medication, which is why we recommend not eating grapefruit for a 96-hour period – 72 hours prior to the appointment and 24 hours after the appointment – says Dear Doctor.
If you are taking any natural remedies, prescriptions or over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin, please discuss this with your dentist prior to the procedure, as well. Your dentist may need to adjust the amount of sedation given to you or even the type to avoid a potential drug interaction.
Smoking and alcohol consumption can also impact how sedatives affect you. Please be sure to discuss your habits prior to your procedure. Pre-existing medical conditions may also affect your recovery. For example, conditions like diabetes or hemophilia can affect your recovery time and should be discussed with your doctor ahead of time to discuss any possible concerns or complications.
Each person is unique and will interact with sedation differently. It is better to be up front with your dentist than to be unpleasantly surprised by a potential risk later.
After Your Procedure
What happens after your appointment? First off, make sure that you arrange for a ride to and from the dentist’s office as you will not be able to operate heavy machinery until the sedative has worn off. Depending on the type of procedure you receive, you may want to take some time off work as well so to give your body time to recuperate from the effects of sedation. You may need to take a half day or even a full day off to properly recover. Each procedure impacts each person differently, and there is no definitive way to say how something is going to affect you. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
It is important to remain hydrated and drink water after your appointment, as well. Remaining hydrated will help your body recover from the procedure. We also recommend getting a good night’s sleep prior to your appointment and the night after. Sleep can help you relax ahead of your appointment and can help your body recover from your procedure.
Before any appointment requiring sedation, our team will discuss your medical history and any concerns that you have with you to make sure that your procedure goes smoothly and without any issues. Sedation can seem daunting, but we can help answer your questions and relieve your concerns.
Of course, the best way to avoid requiring sedation all together is to keep up with your dental health regimen – which includes keeping regular appointments with your dentist. Schedule your next visit to Brockport Dental today by calling us at 585-589-0000 or request an appointment online now.
