What to expect:
A guide for patients
We understand that you may have some questions about anesthesia for yourself or your child. Anesthesia provided to patients in an office setting has an excellent safety record. With over twenty years of combined experience you can have confidence that our team will continue to provide you and your loved ones the same level of excellent care.
PREPARATIONS
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For the upcoming appointment, it's crucial not to consume any food or beverages from midnight the night before or at least eight hours prior
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If the patient is on medication, they may need to continue with some while refraining from others. It's imperative to follow the guidance provided by the anesthesiologist and managing physician
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To optimize the anesthesia experience, it's advised to refrain from smoking at least one day before the procedure. If a nicotine patch is in use, it should be discontinued at least 24 hours before the scheduled anesthesia
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Having a family member or trusted friend to escort the patient and take responsibility for driving them back home after the procedure is strongly recommended
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On the day of the procedure, it's advisable not to plan any activities for the remainder of the day
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR CHILDREN
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Children scheduled for anesthesia are typically booked for morning appointments due to fasting requirements. On the morning of the appointment, the child should wake up, refrain from eating or drinking, and be driven to their appointment in comfortable clothing, such as pajamas
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Upon arrival at the office, the child will undergo an assessment to ensure fitness for anesthesia, checking for any signs of illness like a cold, flu, vomiting, diarrhea, or sore throat. If the child is healthy, sedation will follow
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Once sedated, the child will be taken to the treatment room and continuously monitored for safety. Parents may accompany a child receiving general anesthesia until they fall asleep, after which parents are requested to leave the room
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During the anesthesia, an intravenous catheter (IV) will be placed for rehydration and efficient medication delivery. An endotracheal tube will be inserted in the child's nose to assist with breathing, and all monitoring devices, IVs, and tubes will remain in place for the duration of the treatment
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After completing dental treatment, the endotracheal tube is removed, and the child is transferred to a recovery room, where they will remain for 15-20 minutes or until they respond appropriately
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Care instructions for the child, including the recommendation of having two adults present during the drive home for close supervision, will be provided. The child may feel hungry following anesthesia, and the recovery room nurse will likely suggest suitable meal options
SIDE EFFECTS
*Anesthetic drugs may lead to occasional after-effects, such as nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, and a temporary loss of normal body coordination.
These effects typically dissipate within twenty-four hours after discharge. Patients are encouraged to stay hydrated and follow pain medication instructions as directed by their dentist.
HELPFUL TIPS
*Patients should avoid foods and drinks that may cause upset stomach or gas, including coffee, milk, cauliflower, chocolate, fried foods, and baked beans.
Excessive sugar intake can distend the stomach, and carbonated drinks should also be avoided due to potential discomfort.
*To ensure patient safety, it's crucial to inform the dentist about all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, being taken, as certain drugs may interact with local anesthetic solutions.