Sedation dentistry allows the dentist to perform procedures comfortably for those who have anxiety about going to the dentist. Depending on your needs, your dentist will either use mild, moderate, or deep sedation, where you will alternate between various stages of consciousness.

You will either be given inhalation nitrous oxide or an oral sedative to help you through your procedure. You will not have anxiety during your procedure, nor will you feel any pain or have any recollection of the procedure. While there aren't any strict preparation requirements before undergoing sedation, your dentist may recommend that you stop taking the following medications or dietary supplements a couple of days before receiving your sedation treatment. 

Allergy Medications

Both decongestants and antihistamines are used to treat allergies. Antihistamines are most effects against a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, scratchy throat, itchy skin, and hives. Conversely, decongestants are most effective for nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

Both of these over-the-counter medications can interfere with the sedation medication your dentist administers to you before your procedure. Antihistamines and decongestants may either increase or decrease the effectiveness of your sedation medication, and may even raise the risk for certain side effects. These side effects may include heart palpitations, cardiac arrhythmia, increased or decreased respiratory rate, dry mouth, and anxiety.

Magnesium Citrate

Magnesium is often recommended for muscle cramps, chest pain, high blood pressure, anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation. Magnesium citrate and magnesium oxide are two of the most common magnesium supplements, however, citrate is typically better absorbed than oxide.

You may need to stop taking your supplements for a couple of reasons. They may cause your blood pressure to drop while you are under sedation and they may raise your risk for bleeding both during your dental procedure and after.

If your physician has prescribed magnesium citrate to regulate an abnormal heart rhythm, do not stop taking it until they tell you that it is safe to do so. Be sure to let your dentist know if you're still taking magnesium citrate supplements at the time of your procedure so that they can monitor your cardiovascular status and blood pressure more closely. 

If you are anticipating a dental procedure, talk to your dentist about the benefits of sedation dentistry. It can be used for just about any dental procedure, including filling cavities, extractions, and even routine teeth cleanings. One of the most striking benefits of sedation dentistry, however, is that it gives hope and courage to people who haven't been to a dentist in years.