I’m thinking about getting dental sedation in order to go back to the dentist. I haven’t been in a while because dentists make me uncomfortable. I hope that doesn’t offend you. I’m trying to do as much research ahead of time. I’m kind of a nervous eater. Is it okay to eat before dental sedation?
Lacey
Dear Lacey,
I take no offense, so don’t worry about that! Dentists are used to patients not looking forward to seeing them. Believe me, you are not alone in your dental anxiety. I’m glad you are looking into dental sedation. You will find it will completely change your view of dental care. Patients who were previously terrified of the dental chair find themselves all caught up and with healthy teeth again.
The answer to your question about eating before dental sedation depends on what type of sedation you do.
Nitrous Oxide
This is the mildest form of sedation and it is almost always okay to eat before using it. The treatment doesn’t start until you get there. Your dentist will put a nosepiece on you. The gas used to be dubbed “laughing gas”.
It makes you feel relaxed and a bit floaty. Many patients fall asleep during their procedure. The majority of cases of nausea with this procedure are when the dental care goes longer than 45 minutes. Though, even then only a few people suffer from nausea.
The chances increase with every hour past 45 minutes. If you need a lot of work or if your anxiety is severe, I’m going to recommend the next level of dental sedation.
Oral Conscious Sedation
This is a much stronger form of sedation. You’ll be given a pill to take before your appointment. However, it will be so strong you will need a ride to and from your appointment. You’ll also need someone to stay with you until you are lucid and steady on your feet.
It is not recommended you eat before Oral Conscious Sedation. It’s quite strong. You’re much more likely to get sick. However, most dentists will allow you to schedule your work first thing in the morning. This way you aren’t spending a good part of your day nervous and hungry before getting the work done.
This particular form of sedation allows you to get a lot of work done in one sitting. It’s ideal for patient’s whose fear has kept them away for a long period of time.
This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Steven Collins.