If the prospect of seeing a dentist causes you anxiety, you're not alone. Many individuals fear dentist appointments, which is why dental clinics now provide sedation dentistry. Patients who suffer from dental anxiety or who require specific procedures might consider scheduling an appointment for sedation dentistry. Here are some methods to prepare for sedation dentistry so you're ready for your appointment.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

It's critical to stay hydrated when seeing sedation dentists for treatment. It takes drinking at least eight glasses of water a day to be properly hydrated. Be sure that you drink enough water the day before your appointment. You won't be able to eat or drink for a few hours before being administered laughing gas, so be sure you're not dehydrated when you arrive.

Empty Your Stomach

For most forms of sedation dentistry, you shouldn't eat anything for a few hours before your session. According to the CDC, nitrous oxide is the most common inhaled anesthetic used in dentistry. Around 58% of adults use it when necessary for dentistry treatment. While sedation might be pleasant for some people, others find the sensation nauseating. Having minimal food in your system will help if you become nauseous.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Another way to prepare for sedation in the dentist's office is to think about how you'll be most comfortable. For many people, this means wearing loose clothing. Even if you're coming straight from work, make sure you're dressed in something you'll be comfortable in for a while. You'll want to avoid waistbands and stiff clothing in order to be as relaxed as possible.

Bring Soothing Music to Play

Your dentist may or may not intend to talk to you through the treatment, depending on the severity of your sedation. If your dentist doesn't need to speak to you during the appointment, we recommend bringing headphones and a source of relaxing music. This can help you remain calm throughout your entire procedure, especially for people who feel anxious in the dentist's chair.

Leave Your Schedule Open

Finally, following sessions with sedation dentists, don't make any important plans for the remainder of the day. Most moderate sedation treatments will keep you awake and engaged for the remainder of the day, but avoid operating machinery or doing anything that needs significant mental processing effort. Instead, schedule your dentist appointment for a time when you will be free in the afternoon. Remember to ask someone to drive you home if you're worried about being able to drive afterward.

Following the above tips will help you prepare appropriately for successful appointments with sedation dentists. If you seek dentists that offer sedation treatments, contact us today!