Post-Procedure Instructions for IV Moderate Sedation

Q: I feel fine after a few hours. Can I drive?

No. The sedative medications remain in your system for up to 24 hours and can create a false sense of being “back to normal.” Your judgment, coordination, and reaction time are still significantly impaired, making it unsafe to drive.

Q: Is it normal that I don't remember my appointment?

Yes, absolutely. This is a desired and very common effect of the sedation medications called amnesia. It is one of the primary reasons patients choose sedation for their dental care.

Q: When will I feel completely back to myself?

While most of the grogginess will subside after a few hours of rest, you will likely feel tired for the remainder of the day. After a full night’s sleep, you should feel completely back to normal the next morning.

Post-Sedation Instructions

Escort & Transportation

Your safety is our highest priority. The medications used for IV sedation significantly impair your judgment and coordination. These effects last for many hours, even if you feel alert.

You MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult who will remain in our office for the entire duration of your appointment.
This person is responsible for driving you home and monitoring you for the rest of the day. You cannot be left alone.
Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES are you permitted to drive a vehicle, operate machinery, or take public transportation (including rideshare services like Uber or Lyft) by yourself for 24 hours following your appointment.

Post-Sedation Diet

Your digestive system may be sensitive after sedation. It’s important to rehydrate and eat lightly.

Start Slowly: Begin by sipping clear liquids such as water, apple juice, or ginger ale.
Progress Gently: If you are not feeling nauseous, you may progress to soft, light foods like yogurt, applesauce, or a smoothie (no straws if you also had surgery).
Avoid: Do not consume heavy, greasy, or spicy foods on the day of your sedation, as this can cause nausea. Avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours.

Activity Restrictions

For the next 24 hours, your primary job is to rest and recover. Your coordination and decision-making abilities are impaired.

Rest: Go home and rest. Plan on taking it easy for the remainder of the day. Lie down or relax in a comfortable chair.
NO Driving: Do not drive or operate any vehicles or hazardous machinery for a full 24 hours.
NO Important Decisions: Do not make any important legal, financial, or personal decisions for 24 hours.
Supervision: You must have a responsible adult with you for the rest of the day.

Managing Side Effects

It is normal to experience some side effects as the medication wears off.

Drowsiness: Expect to feel groggy, dizzy, or sleepy for several hours. This is normal.
Amnesia: It is very common and expected that you will have little to no memory of the dental procedure itself.
Nausea: Some patients experience nausea. If this occurs, stick to clear liquids until your stomach feels settled. If you are actively vomiting, please contact our office.
Pain: Remember to follow the separate post-operative instructions for the dental procedure you had performed to manage any discomfort.