Before & After Sedation Instructions

Posted on Oct 04, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

At Biltmore Periodontics, we pride ourselves on providing optimal safety and comfort to our patients, for every appointment and regardless of the procedure. For some procedures, patients are sedated. Typically, this occurs through “twilight sleep,” which is delivered intravenously (I.V.) by a doctor who is a Board Certified Anesthesiologist, Dr. Brad Stone.

I.V. Sedation places patients in a sleep-like state throughout the procedure. Too, it creates an amnesiac effect so there is no memory of the procedure afterwards. Throughout, the patient is closely monitored by Dr. Stone who uses specific safety equipment. This includes several monitors: EKG (heart), blood pressure, pulse, exhaled carbon dioxide and oxygen saturation.

The sedation process includes instructions both before and after. Dr. Stone will call you prior to your procedure to review your medical history. During this conversation, he will explain sedation and answer any questions.

Following these instructions will help you enjoy a optimal comfort with a quick recovery:

Instructions For BEFORE You Are Sedated

• Eating – No food or any type of dairy product after midnight. In cases scheduled for later the next day, you may be allowed a light meal (example: toast, NO fatty foods) for up to six (6) hours before the procedure. It is critical your stomach is empty by the time of the procedure.
• Drinking – Moderate amounts of clear liquids (water,  juice, Pedialyte, Gatorade, soda) can be consumed up to three (3) hours prior to your appointment.
• Attire – Wear loose, comfortable clothing. With colder weather, layering is best. For children, a ‘pull-up’ may help with ‘accidents.’
• Medications – Unless specifically advised, it is recommended to take all medications as prescribed with a small amount of water.
• Transportation – No patient who receives sedation or anesthesia is allowed to operate a vehicle following discharge from our dental office! All patients must have a responsible adult stay with them until they are fully recovered.

Instructions For AFTER You Are Sedated
After you are released from our office, the most important thing you can do is to return home and REST. Giving your body a chance to recover after having anesthesia is best achieved through resting.

Adults
Take your time when moving. Use help or assistance as much as possible. As you move from lying to sitting or sitting to standing, move slowly. If you experience dizziness, lie or sit back down and rest. When climbing stairs, have someone help and assist you. Remember also…

• No driving for the remainder of the day.
• Avoid operation of mechanical or electrical machinery/devices.
• Avoid making any important decisions or signing important documents.
• Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages and/or smoking.
• Avoid any unaccompanied activity.

Children
Children who have been sedated should be carefully monitored by a responsible adult for 4 hours after returning home.
• No climbing, running or riding bicycles for the rest of the day.

Medications: Resume taking prescribed medications once you are drinking fluids. If you receive prescriptions for the procedure, take those as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Motrin are allowed and may be helpful.

Eating & Drinking: Liquids may be consumed as soon as possible following sedation. Begin with frequent small quantities of clear fluids (such as water, juice and soda). Increase your diet as desired depending on how you feel.

In addition to instructions for sedation, your procedure may include specific guidelines you should follow. We will review those with you carefully. It is our goal to help you achieve an optimal treatment outcome with the highest level of safety and comfort.

Our team is also available to assist you prior to or following any procedure. Call 828-274-9440. If after-hours, our answering machine will provide instructions on how to reach us.