I finally decided to see a sedation dentist for 4 crowns that I need badly. I need 2 fillings also and am anticipating being in the office for a while. I am wondering if sedation dentists have provisions for patients to stay in the office until the medication wears off. If it can wear off in the office, I prefer to drive myself home. How long does it take for the medication to wear off? Jamison

Jamison – You first need to have a consultation with a sedation dentist to determine which level of sedation you will receive. If you receive oral conscious sedation, you will likely be drowsy for the rest of the day. You will still need a ride home.

What to Expect with Sedation Dentistry

Below is some helpful information on what’s involved in receiving sedation dentistry

• Your first appointment is a consultation for diagnosis of the issues with your teeth, along with treatment options.
• Your medical, prescription, and dental history will be reviewed to determine if you are a candidate for sedation and which medication should be used.
• For the day of your appointment, the sedation dentist will advise you to have an adult drive you to the office, take you home, and stay with you for the rest of the day. This is a precaution for you, because if you’re at home and you need anything, your drowsiness can contribute to an accident.
• After your procedure plan to stay at home, preferably in bed or on a sofa.

Sedation allows dentists to complete as much work as possible. But if any of your teeth require extensive work, you’ll probably have to return to the office until treatment is complete.

After your consultation, your dentist will provide you with a treatment plan. Your sedation dentist will let you know if all of your dental work can be completed in one day, or if multiple appointments are required. Dental crowns usually require at least two appointments. Crowns are usually made in a lab, so you would return to the office to have them bonded to the natural teeth that the crowns are preserving.

Depending on your comfort level with the dentist, after your first treatment appointment, you might prefer to only receive local anesthetic and to waive medication that will make you drowsy. In that case, you would be able to drive home.

We suggest that you find a sedation dentist who is also a cosmetic dentist. A trained cosmetic dentist will produce natural-looking results that help you smile with confidence.

This post is sponsored by Plano female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.