If you are expecting to undergo an invasive procedure or have a difficult time at the dentist's office then you may be recommended to receive dental sedation. Our Langley dentists shares some information about what sedation is and how you can expect to feel after you come out of dental sedation.
What is oral conscious sedation?
The primary goal of oral conscious sedation is to relieve pain and discomfort while also making you feel at ease during your dental procedure. This sedation technique is used for a variety of procedures, including teeth cleanings, root canals, and endoscopes. This medication may benefit patients who have a strong gag reflex, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems, fear of pain, or high sensitivity to touch.
The dentist will determine the appropriate dosage of this mild to moderate sedation and will also give you instructions to follow before and after the sedation. Take an oral liquid or pill one hour before your dental appointment. You might have to take a dose the night before the procedure to help with anxiety-related insomnia.
Treatment will put you in a state of relaxation. You will stay alert and responsive, and you should not feel any pain.
What is IV sedation?
IV sedation refers to several medications that can be directly administered into the bloodstream through the vein to offer the deepest level of sedation short of general anesthesia. Please note that Willowbrook Dental Clinic does not offer IV sedation, but we still feel we should explain it to you for educational purposes.
Will I feel any side effects from sedation dentistry?
You may experience drowsiness or grogginess during your appointment due to moderate sedation, which could potentially result in falling asleep. However, your dental team will gently wake you up. The effects of sedation can vary from person to person, just like with many other medications. Patients typically experience only minor side effects after their appointment. You may have observed that you have observed.
Oral Conscious Sedation
- Low blood pressure
- Mild headache
- Sluggish reflexes
- Drowsiness
- Amnesia (only for the period you are sedated)
- Dry mouth
IV Sedation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Watery eyes
Both Oral Conscious Sedation & IV Sedation
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
All of these symptoms should go away within 24 hours of taking an oral sedative. Remember that not all patients will experience side effects and that the severity will vary.
Are there potential complications with oral conscious sedation or IV sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a procedure with minimal side effects and a high level of safety. While you are sedated, the dental team will keep a close eye on your vital signs.
Before prescribing an oral sedative, your dentist will ask about your medical history. This is important because certain health conditions may make it risky for you to use this option, as it could lead to complications.
It is important for individuals who are obese or have obstructive sleep apnea to have a conversation with their dentist about alternative options. These two health conditions can lead to complications, which can make oral conscious sedation unsafe.
When a trained professional supervises, the use of IV sedation is generally safe, although it's important to remember that all medical procedures carry some level of risk. The dental team will carefully monitor to manage the most serious risk of oversedation. We ensure that patients are never left alone while they are sedated.
Make sure to verify the qualifications of your dentist to administer sedation.
What can I expect during recovery?
Your recovery time from sedation will depend on the type and level administered by your dentist. It may take anywhere from one to several hours to fully recover. During this time, your dental team will closely monitor your vital signs to ensure they stabilize and return to normal.
If you need a ride to and from your appointment, the dentist will let you know. You should consider taking the day off, avoiding operating heavy machinery, and refraining from physical activity until the sedative wears off. The side effects will go away after 24 hours.