People are afraid of visiting the dentist because of pain during the procedures. However, sedation dentistry can help them stay calm and relaxed during the procedures. This is because sedatives affect the body’s normal functioning by slowing down the brain’s activity.
Sedation affects your body’s reflexes. Therefore, you will find that you will not be allowed to have meals or drink anything before a dental procedure that will involve general anesthesia. This is because the presence of food or liquids inside your stomach risks vomiting or food rising to your throat.
For patients who have medical conditions like diabetes, you may need to consult with your dentist on how to prepare before dental surgeries.
At Dental Zone, we provide guidelines and explain everything you need to know to prepare before sedation. As such, we have compiled this article to give you highlights and pointers on the dos and don’t before sedation. Read on.
What Can You Eat Before Sedation Dentistry?
The types of foods you can eat mainly depend on the anesthesia used. In the case of light surgery, you are not restricted to eating foods six hours before the procedure. However, those undergoing general anesthesia are advised not to eat or drink anything. These restrictions apply to dairy products and solid and semi-solid foods.
However, in the event you are undergoing a light dental procedure, some of the foods you can eat include:
- Fruits – Fruits and fruit salads are among the best foods to have as vitamin C in fruits protects the gums from bacterial infection and cell damage.
- Veggies and Cereals – Vegetables help promote better health and keep one’s appetite in check. The two foods are easy to digest and take a short time to prepare. In addition, raw veggies and crisp fruits like celery help freshen breath and remove plaque in the teeth.
One category of foods to avoid includes spicy foods, as they can irritate the gums and teeth, especially for people with sensitive gums. These irritations can cause the gums to appear red, swollen, or tender.
Can You Drink Water Before Dental Sedation?
Yes, water is among the best drinks people can take before dental surgery. Nevertheless, it is advised that people drink water two hours before the appointment. Diabetic people can take sips of water to help with their condition.
Alternatively, you can drink smoothies. Some fruits that can make the best smoothies include watermelons, pineapples, and passion fruits. Adding boiled arrowroots and sweet potatoes makes the smoothie thick and better than solid foods.
Tips to Keep in Mind
- Stick to the Given Guidelines – All patients must follow the instructions and guidelines stipulated by the dentists to facilitate a smooth procedure and prevent any complications during the surgery. One of the risks that can develop when you fail to follow your dentist’s advice before surgery include aspiration. This is a severe anesthesia complication caused by the stomach’s contents filling up the lungs, which can lead to more issues during the surgery.
- Brush Your Teeth – Ensure that you brush your teeth before going out for the appointment. It helps improve oral health and promotes an easy time for dental work. In addition, brushing teeth gets rid of bad smells.
- Avoid Alcoholic Drinks – Alcohol causes severe health conditions when mixed with anesthesia, such as vomiting and nausea. In addition, it increases the risk of aspiration.
Here is an example of how you should schedule your meals and drinks when you have an appointment with a dentist.
- If your appointment
- is at 3 PM, make sure you eat before 9 AM and have clear fluids an hour past noon. So, it would be okay to take breakfast before 9 AM and indulge in drinks until 1 PM.
If you want to know more about sedation dentistry and how it can help alleviate your fears during dental procedures, visit our offices today. Our dentist in Surrey will be more than happy to consult with you and guide you on how to prepare for dental sedation. So, call us today to book an appointment.