Anesthesia Preoperative & Postoperative Instructions

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Please read this guide carefully and follow all instructions to endure a smooth and safe anesthesia experience.

Pre-Op Instructions:

Required Paperwork

  • All medical history and consent forms must be completed in full

  • Forms must be submitted prior to scheduling

  • A scheduling deposit is required before your appointment is confirmed

  • Incomplete forms may result in appointment cancellation

Eating & Drinking instructions

  • No food for 8 hours prior to the appointment

  • You may drink clear liquids only until 2 hours before your appointment

  • Failure to follow these instructions may result in cancellation for safety reasons

Medications

  • Continue Prescribed medications unless otherwise directed

  • Take approved morning medications with a small sip of water

  • Inform our office of:

    • Blood thinners

    • Diabetes Medication

    • Weight-loss medication

  • Do not stop any medication without medical guidance

Illness or Change in Health

Notify us immediately if you experience:

  • Fever

  • Cold, cough or flu symptoms

  • Vomiting or Diarrhea

  • Recent ER visits or hospitalization

  • New medication or diagnosis

Day of Procedure

  • Arrive on time as instructed

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing

  • Avoid makeup, lotion, perfume or nail polish

  • Remove contact lenses and jewelry

Escort Requirement

  • A responsible adult must accompany you

  • They must remain on-site or be immediately available

  • You may not drive home from your procedure

Marijuana use & Anesthesia safety

For your safety, please inform us of any marijuana or cannabis use, including smoking, vaping, edibles or tinctures.

  • Do not use marijuana within 1 hour of anesthesia

  • Use within this time frame significantly increases the risk of heart complications, including heart attack.

  • Marijuana use can also affect heart rate, blood pressure, and anesthesia requirements.

Failure to disclose recent marijuana use or using marijuana too close to your appointment may result in cancellation or postponement of your procedure. If you have any questions about marijuana use and anesthesia, please contact us prior to your appointment.

Post-Op Instructions

After anesthesia, it is normal to experience drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or temporary memory changes. These effects may last several hours,

Activity and Supervision

  • Rest for the remainder of the day

  • A responsible adult must remain with you for the first 24 hours

  • Do not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours

Eating and Drinking

  • Start with clear liquids once fully awake

  • Progress to light foods as tolerated

  • Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours

Medications

  • Take only medications approved or prescribed by your dental provider

  • Avoid sedatives, sleep aids, or recreational substances unless cleared by anesthesia provider

Common Side Effects

You may experience:

  • Sleepiness or fatigue

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Mild headache

  • Temporary confusion or forgetfulness

These symptoms usually improve within 24 hours.

When to Contact us immediately

Call our office or seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Chest pain

  • Shortness of breath

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Fever over 101 degrees

  • Severe dizziness or fainting

  • Uncontrolled pain or bleeding

If a situation feels urgent or life-threatening, call 911 immediately.

Follow-Up

If you have questions or concerns after your procedure, please contact us. Your safety and comfort remain our priority.