Patient Information

Pre-Procedure

Fasting Instructions

  • Ensure your child does not eat or drink anything for 8 hours prior to procedure.

    • This includes gum, mints, and candy.

    • Failure to follow this guidelines may result in delays or cancellation of the procedure for safety reasons.

Health Status

  • Notify the dental office of any illness prior to the procedure.

  • Symptoms such as sore throat, fever, cold, or flu-like symptoms may require rescheduling.

Medications

  • Inform your dentist of all medications currently being taken.

  • some medications may need to be stopped the morning of the procedure.

Post-Procedure

Recovery Behavior

  • All patients wake from anesthesia differently.

  • Children may appear upset, disoriented, or confused upon waking. This is common and usually short-lived.

  • Stay calm and patient. Some children may need to be held securely to prevent falls during this stage.

Common Side Effects

  • You may notice any of the following, which are considered normal:

    • Dizziness

    • Memory loss

    • Shivering or chills

    • Mood changes

    • Sore throat or coughing

    • Snoring

    • Nosebleed

    • Nausea or vomiting

Breathing Tube Effects

  • A sore throat and coughing may occur due to the breathing tube and typically resolve within 1–2 days.

  • Snoring can happen during recovery due to deep sleep; this is normal and may be relieved by lifting the chin slightly to assist breathing.

  • If a nasal breathing tube was used (common for pediatric patients), a minor nosebleed may occur. Light pressure on the nostrils will usually stop the bleeding quickly.

Nausea and Vomiting

  • Anti-nausea medications are administered during the procedure to help prevent discomfort.

  • When reintroducing food:

    • Start with clear liquids.

    • If tolerated, progress to soft foods, and then regular foods.

  • If nausea persists, the patient may remain in recovery a little longer for monitoring.

Pain Management

  • Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be given as needed after the procedure.

  • Most patients receive Toradol (ketorolac) during the procedure, a strong pain reliever similar to Motrin.

Important: If Toradol was given, do not give Motrin (ibuprofen) for at least four hours after leaving the office.

On the day of

Clothing and Personal Items

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing with sleeves and pant legs that can be rolled up. This allows for IV and monitor placement.

  • If you normally wear contact lenses, please bring glasses instead.

Arrival and Waiting Room Policy

  • Only the patient is allowed in the operatory during the procedure.

  • Parents or guardians should wait in the office lobby.

  • It is normal for children to feel anxious or uncooperative. Our experienced team is trained to manage these situations safely and calmly.

Escort Requirements

  • A responsible adult must accompany the patient home and be able to receive post-procedure instructions.

  • For young children, we strongly recommend two adults: one to drive and the other to monitor and comfort the child.

What to Bring

  • We encourage bringing a warm blanket for the car ride home, especially for children.

Media Policy

  • Please do not take photos or video recordings while in the dental office.

Still have questions?

Visit our FAQ page for more information or contact us directly!