Sort Out the Ride Before Sedation Day
Clarify the type of sedation, preparation instructions, transport, supervision and recovery arrangements before the day of dental treatment.
Find out exactly what is planned
"Sedation" can describe different approaches. Ask which one is being recommended, who will provide it, and why it is suitable for your health and treatment. Ontario's dental regulator says the consent discussion must address the considerations and risks specific to the proposed sedation.[1]
Request written preparation instructions. Ask about eating, drinking and your usual medicines, including the exact times that apply to you. Do not borrow instructions from a friend's procedure or take someone else's anxiety medication. If you miss a preparation step, tell the office before treatment.
Plan the hours afterwards
Ask whether you need an escort, how you should travel, whether someone must stay with you, and when you can return to driving, work or caregiving. Make those arrangements before the appointment. A person who can collect you for ten minutes may not be available for the support the team requires.
Save the aftercare contact details and clarify what should prompt a call. If the arrangements are not possible, tell the clinic early so it can discuss options. There is no benefit in arriving with a plan that depends on you being able to do something your discharge instructions prohibit.