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Sedation Dentistry

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Post-Op Instructions

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Overview
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What To Expect
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Post-Op Instructions

At Light Dental Studios, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our patients, including those who have undergone sedation dentistry.

Following a sedation procedure, we provide comprehensive post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

These instructions are designed to help patients minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, and ensure a successful outcome.

Rest and Recovery

After receiving sedation dentistry, it's crucial to rest and allow the sedative effects to wear off. Patients may feel drowsy and disoriented immediately following the procedure, so it's important to have a responsible adult accompany them and assist with transportation home.

Hydration and Diet

Staying hydrated is essential for a smooth recovery. Patients are encouraged to drink clear fluids like water and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and hot beverages for the first few hours after the procedure. When it comes to food, it's best to start with soft and easily digestible options like yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes. Patients should avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that may irritate the treated area.

Pain Management

Some discomfort or pain is normal after dental procedures, especially if oral surgery was involved. Patients will receive guidance on pain management, including any prescribed medications. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended if appropriate, but patients should follow their dentist's instructions regarding medication use.

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene remains important even after a sedation procedure. Patients should continue to brush their teeth gently using a soft-bristle toothbrush, being cautious around the treated area. Rinsing with a warm saltwater solution can help keep the mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising may occur, particularly if oral surgery or extractions were performed. Applying an ice pack to the affected area for short intervals can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Any persistent or excessive swelling, bleeding, or other unusual symptoms should be reported to the dental office promptly.

Follow-Up Appointments

Patients will be advised on when to schedule follow-up appointments for post-operative checks. These appointments are essential to monitor the healing process, remove any sutures if necessary, and ensure that the treatment was successful.

Dietary Restrictions

Depending on the procedure, patients may be instructed to avoid certain foods or habits for a specified period. For instance, patients who have undergone dental implant surgery may be advised to stick to a soft diet for a few days and avoid smoking or alcohol consumption.

At Light Dental Studios, our commitment to patient care extends beyond the dental chair. We take pride in providing clear and comprehensive post-operative instructions to help patients navigate the recovery process with confidence. By following these guidelines, our patients can experience a smooth and successful recovery, knowing that their well-being is our top priority.

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We know life gets busy, and finding time for a dental visit can be tough. That's why Light Dental Studios now offers same-day, Saturday, and evening appointments. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

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General Information

No, you do not typically need a referral. You can directly schedule an appointment with our in-house specialists for consultations and treatments.

Our in-house specialties offer convenience, coordinated care, and a familiar, comfortable environment. You can receive comprehensive dental services from a trusted team under one roof.

Our 30 locations are spread across the Puget Sound area including AuburnBellevueBonney LakeBurienCovingtonFircrestKentLaceyLakewoodLynnwoodMaple ValleyLilly Road in OlympiaOlympiaPacific Avenue in ParklandPuyallupOrthodontics in PuyallupRentonRuddell Road in Lacey6th Avenue in TacomaTacoma Mall Boulevard in Tacoma, and University Place to provide easy access to quality dental care.

Light Dental Studios offers a range of services including general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, in-house denture lab, orthodontics, oral surgery, and periodontics.

Yes, you can easily request a consultation or find more information about our in-house specialties on our website or by contacting our office.

In-House Specialties

Dental Sleep Medicine specializes in treating sleep-related breathing disorders like sleep apnea. It offers solutions to help you achieve better sleep, improved health, and increased quality of life.
Our in-house denture lab ensures faster turnaround times for fittings, adjustments, and repairs, providing you with well-fitting, comfortable dentures without lengthy wait times.
We offer a range of orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces and clear aligners, such as Invisalign, to address alignment issues and create a straight, healthy smile.

Our periodontists offer dental implant procedures to address tooth loss and provide periodontal treatments to manage gum disease, ensuring optimal oral health.

Our oral surgeons perform a variety of procedures, including tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, corrective jaw surgeries, and more, to address dental and facial concerns.

Coverage varies by insurance plans. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage for each specialty.

Common symptoms include loud snoring, frequent waking during the night, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. A sleep study or consultation with our Dental Sleep Medicine specialist can provide a definitive diagnosis.

Disclaimer: Please note that the provided information above is based on general knowledge, and it's always recommended to consult with our doctors for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your or your child's specific dental needs and conditions. For any questions or concerns, please call our office.

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OtakuRo
22:42 17 Oct 24
Great service, great providers and staff.
Jin Xu
03:14 13 Oct 24
My wife cracked her tooth and got a crown from Dr. Udod and Hailey. We were beyond happy with the care we received here. Hailey went out of her way to make my wife felt comfortable and at ease. Dr. Udod was quick, gentle, and meticulous with his work. Both of them were friendly and professional. It was a great experience for us!
Joanna Felt
00:14 12 Oct 24
Came in for chipped teeth from fall. Harleen was so kind and made every effort to make me comfortable. Dr Lee explained what the process was and what could happen down the road with the tooth. From beginning to end it was 45 minutes and I was back to work. I was so happy made appointment for teeth cleaning in 2 weeks. Great experience for someone who is not big fan of going to dentist 😊😊
Ellie Bates
19:05 04 Oct 24
Dr. Benoit and Allie were so kind and patient. Super quick appointment with a comfort focus.
Jennifer Cope
00:35 04 Oct 24
What a wonderful experience we have had. Our experience was the best !
David Caprara
17:28 19 Sep 24
I have been going here for 10 years. Why? Because of their excellent customer service and phenomenal technical expertise. Starting with the front office. They hire people like Shailee, who takes the time to answer my questions with a smile. You can tell they hire people who like working here and that is seen with the excellent customer service. Shailee took the time to explain a refund I was getting and she didn't act like it was a bother. My dentist, Dr. Benoit and Hailey, her dental assistant, provided exceptionally great service explaining every step in the process of taking care of my cavity. Hailey was a great help with the doctor by being ahead of every next step and working well with the doctor. Dr. Benoit seemed like she was a perfectionist and very detailed in her work. Yet she was very pleasant to talk with even taking time to explain what she was doing. It is like that every time I come in for a visit. The people may change but you get the same excellent service each time you go in there. Great organization 👏 👍 👌 🙌 ❤️
Bruce McDowell
16:13 12 Sep 24
I have found my experiences with Light Dental to be very positive. Dr. Yin, who is giving me a tooth implant, and her assistant Jan have been great. They clearly explain everything that will be happening. The procedure itself thus far (implant base is in) has been painless. They are also good humored and nice to be around. Dr. Yin’s CV is amazing.
tylor dyer
22:11 16 Aug 24
The dentists are good at their jobs, but the real shining stars are their support staff. I have severe dental anxiety and have never gotten through dentist appointments without crying, often hysterically. Both Ashley's (hygienist and assistant) are so warm, friendly, supportive, and accommodating. Kate at the front desk is validating, advocates for patients, and makes me feel so heard and cared about! All three of them have gone above and beyond with me to make me feel safe, comfortable, and important. Often times I feel like a set of teeth at the dentist, but they make me feel like a whole human. They remember me when I walk through the doors or call. Going to the dentist is still an ordeal for me, but I am so grateful for them. I live in Olympia knowing full well Light Dental Studios has a (probably just as great) location so much closer to me, but they don't have the Ashley's or Kate!

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