How to Prepare for IV Sedation at Your Dental Appointment

If you've booked a sedation appointment, a little preparation goes a long way toward a calm, comfortable visit. Here's exactly how to get ready for IV sedation dentistry at our South Surrey office.

Step 1: Complete your pre-sedation paperwork

Before your appointment, you'll fill out a medical history form and sedation consent. Be thorough — list every medication, supplement, and known allergy. If anything has changed since your consultation (a new prescription, a recent illness), let us know before the day of treatment.

Step 2: Follow the fasting instructions

For most IV sedation appointments, you should:

• Avoid solid food for at least 6 hours before your visit
• Stop clear liquids 2 hours before
• Take routine prescription medications with a small sip of water, unless told otherwise

We'll confirm your exact timing when we book you in.

Step 3: Dress comfortably

Wear loose, warm layers with short or easily rolled-up sleeves — this makes IV access easier. Skip contact lenses, heavy makeup, nail polish on at least one finger, and jewellery.

Step 4: Arrange a responsible adult driver

You cannot drive, take transit alone, or return to work after IV sedation. Book a friend or family member to pick you up and stay with you for the first few hours at home.

Step 5: Plan a quiet recovery day

Most patients feel drowsy for several hours afterward. Clear your schedule, prepare soft foods like soup or yogurt, and avoid alcohol, driving, or important decisions for 24 hours.

Step 6: Bring your questions

If anything is on your mind — how long you'll feel groggy, what you'll remember, what pain to expect — write it down. Dr. Alenabi and the team will walk through everything before we start.

For a deeper look at how the appointment itself unfolds, see our guide to sedation dentistry or explore our treatments. To book, call 604-535-8835.