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Therapy
Sedation |
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| SEDATION
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Nitrous
Oxide Analgesia
Nitrous oxide is a compound of nitrogen and oxygen. It is inhaled, along with oxygen, through a nasal mask. We use it for patients of all ages, along with local anesthetics and pain medications. Nitrous oxide has the effect of raising the pain threshold and may even make the time appear to pass quickly.
Intravenous-Conscious Sedation
Intravenous-Conscious sedation is a minimally invasive technique which can help you relax during dental procedures without the risk associated with general anesthesia. A depressed level of consciousness is reached, allowing you to maintain a patent airway independently and to respond appropriately to verbal commands and physical stimulation. The medications, doses, and techniques used are not intended to produce loss of consciousness. Such medications are administered through an IV line.
Sedation
DON'Ts
DON'T drive a car. After sedation, your reaction time may be impaired. Such impairment makes driving a car dangerous. Patients should make arrangements for someone else to drive them home from office.
DON'T operate complex equipment for
at least 24 hours. The same logic that applies to driving a car similarly applies to the operation of other equipment. This includes equipment used at home, such as a lawnmower, as well as that which is used on the job, such as a forklift truck.
DON'T make any important decisions or sign any
legal documents for the day. The potential for impairment relates not only to physical activities but to mental state as well.
DON'T take any medications unless prescribed by
or discussed with your physician. Some medications may adversely interact with anesthetic drugs or chemicals remaining in your body. Included are prescription drugs, such as sleeping pills or tranquilizers, and over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin.
DON'T drink alcohol for at least 24 hours.
Alcohol is also considered a drug, meaning that an alcoholic drink has the potential to negatively react with the anesthetic in your system. This includes hard liquor, beer and wine.
Sedation
DOs
DO leave the office accompanied by a responsible
adult. This person will ensure that you travel
safely, as well as provide immediate care at home
DO remain quietly at home for the day and rest.
You need rest both because you have received anesthesia and because you have undergone a surgical procedure - even one that is considered minor. If after a day you still do not feel recovered, you may want to continue your rest for an additional day or two. Discuss your planned return to work with your physician.
DO arrange for someone to care for your small
children for the day. The most predictable course of action is to leave small children and babies in the care of another responsible adult.
DO take liquids first and slowly progress to a
light meal. Heavy foods can be difficult for your system to digest, thereby increasing the chance for discomfort. For your nourishment, start by taking liquids, then eat light foods, such as broth or soup, crackers or toast, plain rice, Jell-O and yogurt. |
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