The Recovery After Sedation Dentistry: What To Expect?
Posted on 2/20/2023 by Cole Anderson, DMD, MS
Recovery from sedation dentistry varies depending on the kind of sedation you receive and how the body responds to the sedative. In general, those who get laughing gas are able to recover in 15 to 30 minutes, meaning they can still drive themselves home after the appointment. Patients who get oral conscious sedation or intravenous sedation may need roughly 24 hours to recover fully.
When Can I Get Back to Work?
Those who get laughing gas can go back to normal activities after leaving the dental clinic. However, if you receive intravenous or oral sedatives, you have to wait for a day before you can resume work or school. It may even take longer for some patients. The dentist will tell you how much time you need to rest based on your situation.
What Can I Eat?
It is possible to drink or eat immediately after the appointment, however, many people would want to wait until local anesthesia wears off. Start with things like clear liquids and avoid hot foods or beverages. Progress to milkshake or smoothie.
After a couple of hours, you can eat something substantial. A dentist will give you post-op guidelines that tell you the kinds of foods to avoid and the safe ones to eat. Nonetheless, for most dental procedures, a patient can begin eating normally in one week, but if you had procedures on both sides of the mouth, it may take longer to start eating normally.
Moreover, should you develop unusual symptoms like vomiting or nausea, or fever that goes passed 101 degrees Fahrenheit, call our dentist for help. Also, if you have pain that does not disperse with medication, again call our dentist.
Knowing what to expect in sedation dentistry is crucial. You can get your treatment or procedure without worrying about pain or being anxious and fearful. Contact us today to discuss more regarding sedation for your dental procedure.
Recovery from sedation dentistry varies depending on the kind of sedation you receive and how the body responds to the sedative. In general, those who get laughing gas are able to recover in 15 to 30 minutes, meaning they can still drive themselves home after the appointment. Patients who get oral conscious sedation or intravenous sedation may need roughly 24 hours to recover fully. 