How To Prepare for IV Sedation at the Dentist
IV sedation is performed at the dental office to prepare a patient for a dental procedure such as a root canal or dental surgery.
This is done to knock out a patient to minimize the level of anxiety of a patient and make him as comfortable as possible.
Also, this will minimize the amount of pain a patient will feel during a procedure so that the dentist can focus on getting the procedure done without having to worry about the patient.
If you are scheduled to have a dental procedure done and IV sedation will be administered to you, then you need to be prepared so you won’t run into any complications.
Discuss the procedure thoroughly with the dentist
Find out all the details of what type of work will be done to you and why you need IV sedation with your dentist, prior to the date of your surgery.
This way, you’ll be aware of what to expect, as well as be prepared for any side effects of the sedation process. A thorough workup will be performed by the dental assistant, such as getting your vital statistics, blood pressure, weight and any history of allergies to avoid any adverse reactions.
Disclose your medical history
Be upfront with the dentist and dental assistant, especially when you fill out the medical questionnaire. Disclose any allergies you have as well as any medication, drugs or chemicals you may be using.
Don’t wear restrictive clothing
On the day of your surgery, come in wearing loose comfortable clothes. You’ll be sedated for a while, so wear clothes that allow for proper circulation without cutting into your skin. Your hands and arms have to be accessible.
Avoid food, alcohol, drugs and medication
The week of your surgery, live a healthy lifestyle. Stop taking any alcohol and don’t take any recreational drugs. If you are on any current medication, clear with your doctor and dentist first before you decide to stop it.
Twenty four hours before your surgery, don’t consume any alcohol. Also, eat a good meal the evening before your surgery and have a light breakfast only the morning of your procedure.
Bring a friend
Have someone to drive you and be with you after the procedure. It may take a while for the sedative effects of the IV to wear off, so don’t plan on driving yourself or operating any heavy equipment or machinery.
Take the day off from work or skip school because you won’t be able to function or think properly.
When you get home, get enough rest and have some food ready that you can consume. You may not be able to use your mouth to chew comfortably immediately after a dental procedure, so have soft and easy to digest food items ready such as fresh fruit, shakes and soup.
Go back to the dentist for your follow-up to ensure that your procedure is a success. If you do the above, you’ll be able to prepare yourself for the procedure and the accompanying IV sedation.