Oral sedation or IV sedation? What’s the difference?
Oral sedation can take over an hour to take effect and has a modest effect on a patients anxiety level. This does not assure a relaxed and comfortable experience for the patient. Intravenous sedation (anesthesia) offers the ability to rapidly obtain comfort and relaxation while under the direct care of a nurse anesthesiologist. We are able to titrate these medications to the level needed to secure this level and maintain safety. Oral sedation can also linger in the body for many many hours depending upon the individuals ability to metabolize the ingested medications. Our intravenous medications are metabolized very quickly and allow quicker return to a normal level of function.
Should I take my regularly scheduled medication?
Generally, it is safe to take your regular medications with only a sip of water the day of your sedation. If you are diabetic and take insulin you should consult your endocrinologist for further instructions on your insulin dose the day of your sedation. For any further questions feel free to call your nurse anesthesiologist for further clarification regarding your medication on the day of your sedation.
Can I stay with my child during the procedure?
I will sit and discuss the process with you and your child prior to going back for the procedure. I will be assessing he or she as well as educating them regarding what to expect. We often joke around in an effort to put your child at ease. There are offices that allow one parent to accompany the child back for this beginning of the anesthetic other offices do not. I have seen this work with both scenarios. I have found bringing your child back with out parents to be a bit less stressful for the child. Parents are often nervous and this is quite clear to the child when in the procedure room. This often negates any level of comfort the child had during the interview and assessment process. I will typically encourage parents to allow us to walk the child back with out their assistance. Once the procedure is complete the dentist/surgeon will come out and discuss the case with you. I will remain with your child through out recovery. Once he or she is awake and ready I will have you come back to be with them. Once discharge criteria are met we will discharge them home. I encourage two parents or family. I recommend this so an adult can be sitting next to the child during the car ride home.
Will I have nausea?
The medication that you are given while sedated helps prevent nausea for a few hours after you leave the office. This can not be ruled out however and precautions should be taken for the car ride home.
May I eat/drink before or after my dental procedure?
You should not have anything to eat or drink after midnight the night before your sedation is scheduled. Before you are discharged from the office you must be able to drink a small amount of water. You should check with your dentist as to your diet after your procedure. They may have other restrictions or insight.
What are the possible complications if any?
As with anything we do in life there are risks, but anesthesia is extremely safe. Before your sedation you will read and sign an anesthesia consent that reviews any possible complications, remote as they are, they are still possible.
Can I drive myself?
The day of your procedure you must be accompanied by an adult capable of driving you home. This licensed individual will be required to be present at the time of your procedure so we are assured of your safety following the anesthetic and procedure. You should not operate any machinery, use any sharp objects, sign any legal papers or make important decisions that require the full use of your faculties as the medication may impair your judgment for up to 24 hours
How can I pay?
Payment may be made in cash, cashier check, debit or by credit card at the dental office and is due the day of service. A deposit of $200.00 is required before sedation will be scheduled, and will then be applied to your final charges. Prime Anesthesia will supply you with a final receipt which will include billing codes you can submit to your insurance company that may assist you in collecting reimbursement should that be possible. Prime Anesthesia does not guarantee any reimbursement from your insurance company.
My child has special needs or medical conditions; can you still help?
Most children with special needs such as autism, downs syndrome, or other medical conditions can still have their dental procedure with sedation done in the office depending on the degree and severity of their medical condition. An in-depth conversation with your nurse anesthesiologist will determine if the office or hospital is the safest and right choice for your child.
How long will the sedation affect me?
Adults should not operate any machinery, use any sharp objects, sign any legal papers or make important decisions that require the full use of your faculties, as the medication may impair your judgment for up to 24 hours. Pediatric patients may be groggy for 3-4 hours or possibly longer after the procedure and may want to rest when they are discharged home. After a good nights rest they will be back to their usual state.
Will I feel any pain?
We will be utilizing anesthesia throughout the procedure to assure comfort and safety. The intravenous catheter prior to the procedure is usually described as nothing more than a “pinch”. Once the IV is place our anesthetic begins and comfort is secured.
How long will it take?
The length of time it will take is determined by the dentist/surgeon. THe time will melt away for you as you will be anesthetized and quite comfortable. While the procedure may take 30-90 minutes, it will feel like a few seconds for you.
How and when will the nurse anesthesiologist contact me?
Your nurse anesthesiologist will contact you within 24-48 hours after you are schedule with the dental or surgeons office. This phone call will be made by a Prime Anesthesia associate and will review your medical history, inform you of what to expect and answer any questions you may have.
