sedation instructions • LOMBARD & AURORA
Your Guide to Comfortable Sedation
Feeling nervous about dental treatment is completely normal — and you don’t have to white-knuckle your way through it. Sedation helps you relax comfortably while we take care of your smile. Below you’ll find simple instructions to prepare for your sedation appointment, what to expect the day of, and how to recover smoothly afterward.
Before Your Sedation Appointment
Fasting instructions
Do not eat for 6 hours before your appointment. You may sip small amounts of clear water up to 3 hours beforehand. An empty stomach keeps you safe and comfortable under sedation.
Arrange a driver
You must have a responsible adult drive you to and from your appointment. They should stay in the office during your visit.
Medications to discuss
Tell us about all prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements you take. Take your daily medications as directed unless we tell you otherwise.
What to wear
Wear loose, comfortable clothing with sleeves that roll up easily. Skip contact lenses, jewelry, and heavy makeup or lipstick.
Share your medical history
Let us know about any health conditions, allergies, or past reactions to anesthesia or sedation so we can plan your safest visit.
Day of Your Appointment
Arrive early
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time so we can get you settled without rushing.
Use the restroom first
Visit the restroom before your appointment begins so you're comfortable throughout your visit.
Leave extras at home
Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures (unless we tell you otherwise) before your visit.
Relax — we'll handle the rest
Once you're settled, our team will guide you through every step. Most patients are surprised how calm and quick it feels.
After Sedation
Your driver takes you home
Your driver must escort you home after your appointment. Do not plan to drive yourself.
Rest for the day
Take it easy for the remainder of the day. Rest in a comfortable spot and let the sedation wear off naturally.
No driving or big decisions for 24 hours
Avoid driving, operating machinery, signing important documents, or making major decisions for a full 24 hours.
Start with soft foods
Begin with light, soft foods and drink plenty of water. Avoid hot, crunchy, or spicy foods until you're fully alert.
Grogginess fades gradually
Feeling sleepy or foggy afterward is normal. Most patients feel back to themselves by the next morning.
Types of Sedation We Offer
We offer three levels of sedation. During your consultation, we'll recommend the option that fits your needs, health history, and the treatment planned — never more than necessary.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
A mild sedative you breathe through a small nose mask. It takes the edge off anxiety while you stay awake and aware, and it wears off within minutes once the mask is removed.
Oral sedation
A prescribed pill taken before your appointment that produces deeper relaxation — you'll feel drowsy and calm, though still responsive. You'll need a driver.
IV twilight sedation
Sedation delivered through an IV for a deeper state of relaxation, often described as twilight sleep. You likely won't remember much of the procedure. A driver is required, and you'll need the rest of the day to recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be asleep?
With nitrous oxide and oral sedation, you'll stay awake but deeply relaxed. With IV twilight sedation, you'll drift in a dreamlike state and likely won't remember the procedure — but you'll still be breathing on your own and monitored the entire time.
Is sedation safe?
Yes. Your safety is our priority: we review your medical history and medications beforehand, use carefully controlled doses, and monitor you throughout your visit. Be sure to follow the preparation instructions above so everything goes smoothly.
How long does it take to wear off?
Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes. Oral and IV sedation take longer — most patients feel groggy for several hours and fully themselves by the next day. Plan to rest and have your driver stay with you.
Can I drive myself home?
No. For oral and IV sedation, you must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you. You should not drive or make important decisions for 24 hours after sedation.
