Fasting (Very Important)

To keep your child safe during anesthesia, nothing by mouth after the times listed below:

• Solid food & milk: No food after midnight the night before surgery

• Breast milk: Stop 4 hours before arrival

• Clear liquids (water only, no juice): Stop 2 hours before arrival
  ⚠️ If fasting instructions are not followed, the procedure may be cancelled for safety reasons.

2. Medications

• Give only medications approved by our team or the anesthesiologist

• Do not give over-the-counter medicines unless instructed

• Bring a list of all medications and allergies on the day of surgery

3. Health Changes

• Notify our office immediately if your child develops fever, cough, runny nose, vomiting, or illness within 48 hours of the procedure

• The anesthesiologist will determine if it is safe to proceed

4. Day of Surgery

• Dress your child in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing

• Remove nail polish, jewelry, and hair accessories

• A parent or legal guardian must remain on site during the procedure

5. After the Procedure (What to Expect)

• Your child may be sleepy, emotional, or mildly nauseated—this is normal

• A responsible adult must accompany your child home

• Post-operative instructions will be reviewed before discharge

What to Expect During General Anesthesia Treatment

• Before treatment: You and your child will be greeted by our care team, and the anesthesiologist will review your child’s medical history and answer any last questions. Your child will be gently prepared for anesthesia in a calm, supportive environment.

• During treatment: Once your child is asleep, the dental and anesthesia teams work together to safely complete all necessary dental care in one visit. Your child will feel no pain and will be continuously monitored at every moment.

• Monitoring & safety: Your child’s breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are closely monitored throughout the entire procedure by trained professionals.

• After treatment: Your child will wake up in a recovery area where they are carefully observed as the anesthesia wears off. It is normal for children to feel sleepy, emotional, or slightly disoriented at first.

• Going home: Once your child is stable and comfortable, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions and be able to take your child home the same day.

1. Activity & Rest

• Your child may be sleepy, unsteady, or emotional for the rest of the day—this is normal

• Allow your child to rest quietly at home

• No school, daycare, sports, or strenuous activity for 24 hours

• Always supervise your child closely the day of treatment

2. Eating & Drinking

• Start with small sips of clear liquids (water, electrolyte drinks)

• If tolerated, progress to soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, soup, or mashed foods

• Avoid hot, hard, spicy, or crunchy foods for 24 hours

• If your child vomits, wait 30 minutes, then restart with small sips of water

3. Pain & Discomfort

• Mild discomfort or soreness is normal

• Give Tylenol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen as directed

• Do not give aspirin

• Follow any additional medication instructions provided by our office

4. Oral Care

• Gentle brushing may resume the same evening or next morning, avoiding sore areas

• Do not disturb extraction sites or dental work

• Minor bleeding or pink-tinged saliva may occur—this is normal

5. Common After-Effects

It is normal for your child to experience:

• Sleepiness or grogginess

• Mild nausea

• Irritability or crying

• Sore throat or dry lips

These symptoms usually improve within 24 hours.

6. When to Call Our Office or Seek Care

Contact us immediately if your child has:

• Persistent vomiting

• Difficulty breathing

• Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)

• Excessive bleeding or swelling

• Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication