A Gilbert Patient’s Guide to Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry in pre-treatment pill form can help with a wide range of issues that make dental work seem more challenging. If you experience any of the following issues, sedation dentistry in Gilbert may be a good idea for you:

● Difficulty sitting still for the time that will be needed for your treatment

● Particular sensitivity to pain

● Sensitive gag reflex

● Fear and anxiety associated with dental procedures, whether over sounds, smells, or anticipated discomfort

● Soreness in your face and jaw muscles

Sedation dentistry is easy to receive and is well-tolerated by most patients.

As is the case for any medical procedure, your dentist in Gilbert will walk you through some important procedures relating to sedation dentistry. As straightforward and common as it is, there are seven things to keep in mind.

First, your dentist will review your medical history, level of anxiety, and current medications during an assessment to decide together if dental sedation is a good fit for you.

Second, depending on the extent of your anxiety, the timing of your procedure, and other factors, you may be given a sedative to take at home the night before your treatment. That will help you sleep well and arrive at the clinic in the most relaxed state possible.

Third, if you are going to undergo sedation dentistry, do not eat or drink during the six hours before your appointment. In some situations, your dentist may give you different instructions which overrule this rule of thumb.

Fourth, do not drive yourself to your appointment or home afterward. Plan ahead for a ride from a colleague, friend, family member, taxi, or ride-sharing service. For a 24-hour period after your appointment, avoid driving or operating any heavy equipment.

Fifth, after receiving dental treatment under oral sedation, you will need to take some time off from any serious responsibilities — such as caregiving and work — while the effects of the medication and treatment wear off. How long will depend on your treatment, but anticipate taking the rest of the day off after your appointment.

Sixth, to help remove the sedatives from your system after your appointment, drink lots of fluids following your procedure.

Finally, arrange in advance for someone to stay with you while the effects of the sedation are wearing off.

Yes, there can be temporary side effects to the oral sedative. Those side effects may include a dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, and headaches.

If dental anxiety, fear of needles, gag reflex, pain, sensitivity, or any other similar issue is getting in the way of dental care and good oral health, consider your options for sedation dentistry in Gilbert. A dentist near you can help you through those obstacles. The first step is the easiest, it is just getting in touch with a dentist near you.