How Long Does Sedation Dentistry Last?

Sedation dentistry is a great option for the patients who have dental anxiety or have to go through long lasting procedures that require them to sit still for hours at a time.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry4.9

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Valerie D.

Great experience!!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5 star review!

Jyllyan T.

Today was the second time that I became a registered patient with this office. I had previously had work done in the past with a different clinician, paused treatment for some time, and then returned today and was put with a new physician. I cannot even begin to describe the comfortability that I had with my dental anxiety after leaving the office. The new physician that I met with took over an hour to sit with me and go over my concerns, history, present scans, and any questions about the treatment plan moving forward that I had. She was optimistic, kind, compassionate, and most importantly, there for me in every aspect that a patient requires. She made me hopeful about any future needs I might encounter, and I would truly recommend this office yet again to anyone. They continue to find the kindest staff to support them as well, making it a well-rounded practice from start to finish.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care and helping every patient feel informed and comfortable throughout their visit. Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we look forward to continuing to provide you with excellent care.

Corey W.

All three doctors are nice to get over your fear of dentist.Thank you Dr. Hoffmann and team!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review! We truly appreciate your kind words and support.

Mary Lea B.

Carrie and Dr B are awesome!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’ll be sure to share your compliments with Carrie and Dr. Behl.

suzanne

I cannot say enough about Dr. Hoffmann and his incredible staff. I never thought for a second that I would not be terrified to go to the dentist for the rest of my life, but Dr. Hoffmann changed that. I have had extensive work done over the last few months, all pain free. I was missing teeth due to a decades old bridge falling out and Dr. Hoffman made sure I had a beautiful smile in time for my daughter’s wedding. I have never experienced a kinder more compassionate team, when you go, you know you are in good hands. There is more work to be done, but I am no longer afraid, at all. Thank you Dr. Hoffmann, and thank you to your team. You’ve changed my life.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your incredibly thoughtful review. Your kind words truly touched all of us. It means so much to know that our focus on compassionate, gentle care and making people feel comfortable is making a difference. Dr. Hoffmann and our entire team are grateful for your trust and for taking the time to share such a heartfelt message. We appreciate you more than you know and wish you all the very best!

It is also generally safe to use for children because they often cannot stay still for a long time during the needed treatment.

Still, many patients and parents are concerned about the safety of sedation and don’t really know what to expect from it. If you or your child needs a long treatment or if your anxiety prevents you from receiving the needed procedure, your dentist may recommend sedation dentistry. It is therefore important to understand what to expect. While the specifics should be discussed with your dentist, here are some general guidelines.

Before and During the Sedation

You generally need to restrain from eating and drinking anything for six hours before being administered sedatives. That will ensure that your stomach is empty and regurgitated food won’t cause any obstruction of the airways while you are under the sedatives.

Sedatives can be administered intravenously, orally or inhaled. Your St. Louis sedation dentist will discuss the best form of administration for your particular case. If your anxiety levels are very high, you might be asked to take a calming pill before your appointment to ease up the entire process.

You may have to be intubated and wear monitoring devices that help the doctors keep a close eye on your vital signs while you are sedated.

What Will You Feel When Being Sedated?

You will start feeling calm, relaxed, and maybe a bit lightheaded after the sedatives enter your bloodstream. Your arms and legs may feel like they are heavier and soon you will be numb to feel any pain and the doctors can proceed with the treatment.

What to Do after the Procedure?

You will remain in the cabinet for a while after the procedure is complete to be monitored while you recover. It often takes about half an hour for the anesthesia to wear off. You may still feel drowsy and lightheaded for a few hours afterward, so make sure you have someone to transport you home safely and keep you company.

Make sure not to operate vehicles or any dangerous machinery for at least 24 hours after your procedure. You might not respond quickly enough if something happens, and you risk getting injured or damaging your goods.

For these same reasons, it is wise to stay away from cooking for the following 24 hours, as the kitchen can be quite a dangerous place when you are groggy and dizzy. Have someone cook for you or order out and relax for the rest of the day.

We strongly recommend avoiding alcohol, tobacco or other similar substances. Adding more relaxants to your body when it is under the influence or sedatives is not a good idea.

St. Louis Sedation Dentistry

We are the first two board-certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area. If you have any questions regarding dental sedation or would like to set up and appointment, give us a call today at (314) 862-7844.