If the simple thought of going to the dentist makes you anxious, you should look at the dental sedation options in Cibolo we offer. We have extensive experience offering sedation dentistry and can help you feel comfortable regardless of the procedure.
A common question we get asked is if there are any lingering effects. Our patients want to know if they can drive themselves after sedation or if a friend or family member should accompany them.
The short answer is that it depends.
There are different types of sedation that affect your body and motor abilities in specific ways.
Also known as laughing gas, this is a very mild form of sedation. You will inhale the gas through a mask and start feeling its effects within a few minutes. The gas will relax you, yet you will be conscious throughout the procedure. The moment you stop breathing the gas, its effects start wearing off.
Oral sedatives have a more pronounced effect on the body. The effects also last longer compared to laughing gas. This type of sedation is used for patients that are more anxious and need something a bit stronger to calm their nerves. It's also recommended in the case of lengthy procedures that require you to sit still for a long time.
Oral sedation can make you feel dizzy and a bit off after the treatment.
IV sedation is the most profound and potent form of sedation. The sedative will be administered through an IV and immediately enter your bloodstream. A specialist will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure everything is fine.
Most people fall asleep under IV sedation and do not remember anything.
As we said, it all depends on the type of sedation used. In the case of laughing gas, where the effects wear off immediately, you can safely drive yourself back home after the treatment.
But, when it comes to oral sedation or IV sedation, the effects of these sedatives linger for longer in the body and can interfere with your motor and attention skills. It can take up to four hours for the substance to completely leave your body. That's why it's best to have someone who will not only drive you back home but also keep an eye on you until all traces of the sedative leave the body.
Are you nervous about your upcoming dental appointment and are looking for ways to calm your nerves?
At Cibolo Family Smiles, our dentist in Cibolo offers various sedation options to help our patients get the treatment they need, all while feeling relaxed and safe.
Contact us today to learn more about our sedation options and schedule an appointment.