Oral sedation is safe and efficient in lessening anxiety during dental procedures, and patients can receive the procedures without any hassle. However, proper post-sedation care should be followed for a smooth recovery. Here is an article that will give you valuable tips on how to recover safely and comfortably from your visit.
Immediate Recovery After Oral Sedation
After you’ve received dental treatment, you might experience drowsiness or become slightly confused as the sedation effect fades. You need to be careful to prevent any complications. These are some of the most important sedation dentistry recovery tips to assist you during this period:
- Rest is Essential: Take the rest of the day off and avoid any strenuous activities. Your body needs time to recover from the sedative effects.
- Have a Companion: Since your reflexes and judgment may be impaired, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: It is normal to experience mild dizziness, drowsiness, or dry mouth. Speak with your dentist if any symptoms worsen or persist after a day.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water to flush the sedative out of your system but do not use straws as they hurt.
Rest and Home Care
For patients who have received oral sedation at NW Calgary, proper rest is needed to fully recover. Follow these home care instructions:
- Sleep With an Elevated Head: Keeping your head slightly raised during sleep might forestall discomfort.
- Avoid Heavy Meals: Stick to light meals that are easy on your stomach, as sedatives may temporarily affect digestion.
- Take Medications as Prescribed: If your dentist has prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics, follow the dosage instructions carefully to aid in recovery.
- Be Cautious with Activities: Avoid driving, making important decisions, or engaging in any activities that require focus until the sedation has fully worn off.
Eating After Oral Sedation
A common concern after a dental visit is eating after you have done oral sedation. Some of the key instructions to note are as follows:
- Start with Soft Foods: Choose soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soups to prevent taxing your teeth.
- Avoid Hot Foods and Drinks: Since your mouth may be less sensitive, consuming hot items can lead to accidental burns.
- Skip Crunchy or Hard Foods: Hard foods like nuts or chips can cause discomfort and should be avoided until you feel completely normal.
- Drink Plenty of Fluids: Staying hydrated is important, but avoid using a straw as the suction can interfere with healing.
Additional Recovery Tips
To improve the recovery process, the following are the additional steps you can take:
- Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Both substances can interfere with your body’s ability to process the sedative and may prolong grogginess.
- Limit Physical Activity: Engaging in strenuous exercises can increase blood flow to the treated area, potentially causing discomfort.
- Follow a Good Oral Hygiene Routine: Keep your mouth clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water as recommended by your dentist. Avoid aggressive brushing or flossing near the treatment site.
- Get Plenty of Rest: Sleep is crucial for a fast recovery. Listen to your body and take it easy until you regain full energy.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Though the majority of patients are relieved without complications, it is essential to communicate either with your dentist in case you undergo any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent dizziness or nausea
- Severe pain that does not improve with prescribed medication
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling or rash
Your dentist will guide you on the right course of action based on your symptoms.
Trust Our Expert Care
At Foothills Dental Group, we are committed to making your trip to the dentist as relaxing and comfortable as possible. If you must be sedated for treatment or require assistance with dental fear, our dentists are available to offer competent service. If you have questions about your recovery, don’t hesitate to call us.
Come and meet our skilled, compassionate dentist in NW Calgary to get the best oral health treatment. We are focused on making you feel comfortable and securing your health so you will have a great and peaceful stay with us.