If you’re afraid of going to the dentist or need to undergo a lengthy treatment, you’ll need sedation dentistry in Pompano Beach. From nitrous oxide to IV sedation, the different types of sedation can help you feel relaxed and cozy during your treatment, ensuring you get the dental care you need without sacrificing your comfort.
However, certain types of sedation, like intravenous sedation, can take time to leave your system, so it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery. To help you recover quickly after sedation dentistry and avoid complications, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind after receiving sedation:
After sedation, your body needs time to recover. For at least 24 hours, we recommend taking the rest of the day off to avoid engaging in strenuous physical activity or anything that requires mental focus.
Since sedation can impair your motor skills and judgment, it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure. You should not drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring full concentration until the effects of the sedatives have completely worn off.
Once you feel up to it, drink plenty of water. Sedation can sometimes cause dry mouth or dehydration, so staying hydrated is important throughout the recovery process.
Moreover, avoid drinking alcohol, as it can make you nauseous. It will also extend the effects of anesthesia and may make you feel sick.
Pay close attention to any specific instructions your dentist has given you for aftercare, whether they relate to pain management, avoiding certain foods, or caring for your mouth following the procedure.
If you had a dental procedure that involved anesthesia, avoid chewing on hard or crunchy foods for the first 24–48 hours. Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies until you’re sure it’s safe to eat harder foods.
Also, try to avoid extremely hot or cold drinks. While your body is regaining sensitivity in the area, you may be unable to determine if the temperature is affecting you.
Avoid rushing back into your normal routine right after sedation. How long sedation takes to leave your system depends on the person, so give yourself time to recover fully to avoid any adverse effects or setbacks in your healing process.
Smoking or using tobacco products can interfere with healing, especially after dental procedures. It’s best to refrain from smoking for at least 48 hours following sedation to reduce the risk of complications like infection.
Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, or activities that could cause injury while the effects of sedation are still in your system. Your reflexes and coordination may be temporarily impaired, so take a break and give your body time to rest to safely recover.
Immediately after your procedure, your mouth may still be numb. Eating hard, chewy, or hot foods can result in accidental injury to your mouth or burns if the sensation hasn’t fully returned.
If you experience persistent pain, unusual swelling, or discomfort, don’t ignore these symptoms. While some discomfort is normal after dental procedures, severe or prolonged pain should be addressed by your dentist. If you notice any of these worrisome symptoms, reach out!
Sedation is a great tool to get the dental care you need without suffering from discomfort. However, it’s important to follow dental instructions afterward to ensure a smooth recovery.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can quickly recover and make the most of your sedation dentistry experience. Here at Park Plaza Dental, we’re here to help you. If you have any questions or would like to get a dental exam, reach out!
If you have any questions about the services we offer, don’t hesitate to call Park Plaza Dental. Our team is here to make your next appointment a comfortable and productive one.