General Anesthesia

Pre-operation Instructions:

  1. Patients must have a complete physical examination (including lab work if indicated) within 7 days of the operation.
  2. If the patient develops a cold, fever or any other reasons that would defer the appointment, please contact us immediately to consult the dentist. If it is necessary to re-schedule, our staff will notify all doctors and personnel involved.
  3. For patient safety, please strictly follow these instructions:
    • If the patient is less than four years old, he/she should not eat or drink for six hours (four hours for water) prior to the appointment.
    • If the patient is more than four years old, he or she should not eat or drink for eight hours (six hours for water) prior to the appointment.

Post-operation Instructions:

  1. In most cases, patients will be able to return home after becoming fully alert (usually takes approximately one hour after the procedure). There should be more than one adult accompanying the patient home so that the non-driver can care for the patient during the trip.
  2. Common side effects include:
    • Nausea and Vomiting: This is common during the first 1-2 hours after the procedure. Avoid eating or drinking excessive amounts of water or food during this period.
    • Fever: A small child may develop a slight fever from dehydration. In this case, frequent consumption of liquid is recommended along with fever relief medication.
    • Sore Throat: Small sips of water are allowed after awakening. A soft food diet is recommended during the first day.
    • Discomfort and Pain: If the procedure includes oral surgery or the removal of several teeth, please follow the instructions of the oral surgeon. Take pain relief medication as necessary.
  3. Keep the mouth clean by brushing with a soft toothbrush after meals.
  4. Patients can go back to normal activities the day following surgery unless notified otherwise by the oral surgeon.