At Foothills Oral Surgery, we offer various sedation options tailored to the complexity of the surgery and your personal comfort level. Our goal is to make your experience as painless and anxiety-free as possible.
Why Should I Get Sedation For My Oral Surgery Procedure?
Choosing sedation for your oral surgery can significantly reduce anxiety during the procedure. It allows you to remain calm and relaxed and makes the entire experience more comfortable. For more complex or lengthy procedures, we have a nurse who administers general anesthesia, ensuring you're in a sleep-like state and won't feel any discomfort.
Different Sedation Options
- Oral Conscious: This option involves taking a pill before your procedure, helping you feel relaxed but still awake and able to communicate.
- IV Sedation: Administered through a vein, IV sedation works quickly to relax you deeply. You may not remember much of the procedure afterward.
- General Anesthesia: Our highly trained surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologist administer this type of sedation, putting you into a deep sleep throughout the procedure. General anesthesia ensures you feel no pain and have no memory of the surgery.
The Sedation Treatment Process
Each step of the sedation process is designed to ensure your comfort.
Browse each step of our process by clicking through the tabs below!
Consult
Step One
Consultation and Sedation Planning
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation where we’ll discuss your health history, any anxieties you have about surgery, and your preferences for sedation. This step helps us tailor the sedation method to your specific needs and ensure the best possible experience during your procedure.
Preparation
Step Two
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Before your surgery, we'll provide you with instructions based on your chosen sedation method. This might include fasting requirements or taking pre-medication. Our team makes sure you understand how to prepare for your sedation so you can enjoy a smooth and effective procedure.
Surgery
Step Three
Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, our trained nurse or oral surgeon will administer the sedation. They’ll closely monitor your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. Whether you're under oral conscious sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, we’ll make sure you're relaxed and pain-free from start to finish.
Before & Afters
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Am I a good candidate for sedation?
If you feel anxious about undergoing oral surgery, have a low pain threshold, or are facing a complex dental procedure, you're likely a good candidate for sedation. At Foothills Oral Surgery, we evaluate your medical history, the specifics of your procedure, and your comfort level to determine the best sedation option for you.
What does sedation feel like?
Oral conscious sedation makes you feel relaxed and a bit drowsy, but you'll still be awake and able to communicate. IV sedation offers a deeper level of sedation, where you're less aware of the procedure and may not remember much of it afterward. General anesthesia involves being completely asleep. You’ll feel nothing during the procedure and have no memory of it afterward.
What are my pre and post-op sedation instructions?
For all sedation types, follow any specific pre-op instructions provided by Foothills Oral Surgery.
Oral Conscious Sedation
- Pre-Op: You'll be instructed to take the prescribed sedative medication about an hour before your procedure. It's important not to eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before taking the medication. Ensure you have arranged for someone to drive you to and from the appointment, as you will not be in a condition to drive yourself.
- Post-Op: After the procedure, you may feel drowsy for several hours. Rest at home and avoid operating heavy machinery or making important decisions for the rest of the day. Follow any specific oral care instructions provided by your surgeon to aid the healing process.
IV Sedation
- Pre-Op: Do not eat or drink anything, including water, for at least 8 hours before your surgery. This is crucial for your safety during sedation. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment, and ensure you have someone to drive you home afterward.
- Post-Op: You'll likely remain groggy and should spend the day resting. Someone should stay with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure to help as needed. Avoid strenuous activities for a few days and adhere to the oral care and dietary instructions provided by your surgeon.
General Anesthesia
- Pre-Op: Similar to IV sedation, fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure is mandatory. Remove all jewelry, contact lenses, and dentures before surgery. Confirm that you have someone to take you home and care for you post-surgery.
- Post-Op: Recovery from general anesthesia takes longer, and you'll need to be monitored until the effects fully wear off. It's common to experience grogginess and slight nausea. Rest for the remainder of the day and follow a soft food diet as recommended. Ensure you closely follow all post-operative care instructions to support healing.
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