Whether you came in for a simple filling or a more complex dental procedure, sedation dentistry can make the experience much more comfortable. But once the appointment is over, it’s important to give your body the time and care it needs to recover.

At Desert Ridge Dental in Albuquerque, we guide our patients through every step of the sedation process—including what comes after. While recovery tends to be straightforward, a few smart steps can help you heal faster and feel better sooner.

Here’s what you need to know about recovering from sedation dentistry—and how to set yourself up for a smooth healing process.

How Will You Feel After Sedation?

Your recovery experience depends on the type of sedation you received:

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): Wears off quickly, and most people feel normal within minutes. You can usually drive yourself home and resume your day. 
• Oral conscious sedation: Effects may linger for a few hours. You’ll feel drowsy and may have fuzzy memories of the procedure. 
• IV sedation: Leads to deeper relaxation and longer recovery time. You’ll likely feel groggy, sleepy, and unsteady for several hours. 

In all cases, it’s best to take it easy after your appointment—even if you feel fine. Your body has just been through a procedure and may still be processing medication.

Immediate Recovery: What to Expect at Our Office

After your treatment, we’ll monitor you in our recovery area until you’re stable and alert enough to leave. If you’ve had oral or IV sedation, a trusted adult will need to drive you home. You’ll also receive detailed post-op instructions tailored to your procedure and sedation type.

We’ll review any special care tips (such as managing discomfort or cleaning the treatment area) and answer any final questions before you head out the door.

Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Recovery

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

If you were fasting before your appointment, your body is probably a little dehydrated. Drink plenty of water as soon as you’re allowed—it’ll help flush the sedation medication from your system and support healing.

Skip the sugary or caffeinated drinks until you’re fully recovered, and avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours.

2. Start with Soft Foods

Once the numbness wears off, stick to soft, bland foods like yogurt, applesauce, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, or soup. Avoid anything crunchy, spicy, or too hot, especially if your mouth is still sensitive or healing.

Don’t rush back into regular meals—ease your way into it.

3. Take It Easy

Sedation can leave you feeling groggy, foggy, or unusually tired. That’s totally normal. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Skip the gym, yard work, and anything that requires focus—like driving or operating machinery.

It’s a great excuse to nap, read, or binge-watch something on the couch.

4. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions

Every procedure is different, so always follow the personalized care instructions we give you. That might include how to take pain medication, when to rinse your mouth, and how to manage swelling.

If you have any questions once you get home, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

5. Resume Oral Hygiene—Gently

Unless instructed otherwise, you can usually brush and floss later the same day. Just be gentle, especially around the treated area. Avoid vigorous rinsing or using mouthwash with alcohol until your dentist says it’s okay.

Keeping your mouth clean will help prevent infection and speed up healing.

When to Call the Dentist

Most people recover quickly and without issues, but be sure to contact us if you experience:

• Prolonged dizziness, confusion, or extreme drowsiness 
• Excessive swelling or bleeding 
• Fever or chills 
• Nausea that doesn’t go away 
• Pain that doesn’t improve with medication 

We’re here to help make sure your recovery stays on track.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Recovery time varies, but here’s a general idea:

• Nitrous oxide: You’re usually back to normal within an hour. 
• Oral sedation: Full alertness may return by the end of the day. 
• IV sedation: You’ll likely need the rest of the day to fully recover. 

By the next morning, most patients feel significantly better. Just make sure to take it easy, listen to your body, and follow your dentist’s advice.

Final Thoughts: Your Comfort Is Our Priority

At Desert Ridge Dental, we believe that your experience shouldn’t end when the procedure does. We’re here to support you through recovery with clear instructions, personal check-ins, and expert guidance if anything feels off.

Whether you’re coming in for sedation for the first time or you’ve had it before, we’ll make sure you’re cared for every step of the way—before, during, and after your visit. Contact us today!