Before Anesthesia
Preparing for Your Procedure at Apopka Smiles
If your treatment at Apopka Smiles involves anesthesia, careful preparation helps keep you safe and comfortable and helps your procedure go smoothly. Patients and our staff both benefit when these instructions are followed. Please read them carefully, and call us at 407-788-6888 if you have any questions before your appointment.
Pre-Anesthesia Instructions
1. Do Not Eat or Drink for at Least 8 Hours
No eating or drinking for at least 8 hours before surgery. An empty stomach lowers the risk of complications during anesthesia. If your procedure is in the morning, this usually means nothing after midnight. If you're unsure, ask our team.
2. Do Not Smoke for at Least 12 Hours
No smoking for at least 12 hours before surgery. Smoking can affect your breathing during anesthesia and can slow healing afterward. Avoiding smoking for as long as possible after surgery also helps your mouth heal.
3. Bring a Responsible Adult to Drive You Home
All patients must be accompanied by a spouse, partner, family member, friend or neighbor who will drive them home after the procedure. Don't drive for at least 24 hours after receiving anesthesia. Plan to rest at home for the remainder of the day.
4. Review Your Medications With Your Dentist
Review your daily medications with your dentist before the day of your procedure, and take your medications on the day of the procedure as directed by your dentist. Tell us about all prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines and supplements you take.
5. Leave Contact Lenses, Dentures and Jewelry at Home
Don't wear contact lenses, dentures or jewelry to your appointment.
Additional Tips for the Day of Your Procedure
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with short sleeves.
- Arrive a few minutes early so we can review your health history and answer questions.
- Let us know if you are feeling unwell, have a cold or fever, or if anything about your health has changed since your last visit.
- Prepare soft foods and cold compresses at home ahead of time so they're ready for your recovery.
Procedures That May Involve Anesthesia
Depending on your treatment plan, anesthesia may be used for procedures such as wisdom teeth removal, impacted tooth removal, multiple tooth extractions and dental implant placement. Your dentist will explain the type of anesthesia planned for you.
After Your Procedure
Once you're home, follow our Surgical Instructions and Post-Operative Instructions. For specific procedures, see:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink water before anesthesia?
The instructions call for no eating or drinking for at least 8 hours before surgery. If your dentist has given you different instructions about medications or water, follow those.
Should I take my regular medications?
Review your daily medications with your dentist ahead of time, and take your medications on the day of the procedure as your dentist directs.
Can I take a rideshare home?
You must be accompanied by a responsible adult such as a spouse, partner, family member, friend or neighbor who will drive you home.
Questions before your procedure? Call Apopka Smiles at 407-788-6888.
