General Pre-Operative Guidelines (Applicable to All Patients)

• NPO (Nil Per Os): Do not consume food or liquids for 6–8 hours before surgery if undergoing sedation or general anaesthesia.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up for blood pressure and IV access.
• Medical Stability: Inform us immediately if you develop fever, upper respiratory symptoms, or changes in health status within 72 hours of your appointment.
• Medication Compliance: Continue medications for hypertension, diabetes, or other chronic conditions unless otherwise advised.

Instructions by Type of Anaesthesia

Local Anaesthesia (e.g., for minor extractions, fillings)

• No need for fasting unless advised.
  
• Take prescribed medications as normal.
  
• Eat a light meal before the appointment.
• Avoid alcohol, stimulants, or sedatives for 24 hours prior.

Oral Sedation (e.g., diazepam, triazolam)

• Fast for 6 hours before your procedure (clear water permitted up to 2 hours before).
  
• Do not drive or operate machinery on the day of your appointment.
  
• Arrange for a responsible adult to escort you and remain available post-procedure.
  
• Bring a full list of medications and relevant medical records.

Sedation / General Anesthesia

• No food or fluids for at least 8 hours prior.
  
• Disclose all medications, including herbal supplements and recreational drugs.
  
• Remove nail polish, contact lenses, and jewelry before surgery.
  
• A caregiver must be present to escort you and remain for at least 12–24 hours post-surgery.
  
• Review and sign all pre-op consent forms in advance.

Medication & Prescriptions

• Take all medications as prescribed, including antibiotics, analgesics, or anti-inflammatories.
  
• Refrain from self-medicating with over-the-counter painkillers unless cleared by your provider.
  
• Contact the office immediately for adverse reactions or if medications are ineffective.

Monitoring Post-Operative Healing

• Normal Symptoms (first 24–72 hours)
  • Mild swelling
  • Minor oozing or pinkish saliva
    
  • Moderate discomfort managed with prescribed analgesia

• Concerning Signs:
  • Excessive bleeding (>30 minutes with applied pressure)
    
  • Facial swelling that worsens after 72 hours
    
  • Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
    
  • Pus, foul odor, or unusual discharge
    
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
    

Call the office or emergency services if any of the above occur.

Dietary Instructions

• First 24–48 hours:
  • Soft, cool foods only (e.g., yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes)
    
  • Avoid hot liquids, spicy foods, and carbonated beverages
    
  • Do not use a straw (risk of dislodging blood clot)
• Resuming Normal Diet:
  • Introduce firmer foods gradually as comfort allows
    
  • Avoid nuts, seeds, and crusty foods for at least 7 days post-extraction

Activity & Oral Hygiene

• Physical Activity:
  • Limit physical exertion for 48–72 hours
  • Avoid heavy lifting, gym workouts, and running
• Oral Hygiene:
  • Do not brush near the surgical site for 24 hours
  • Begin gentle rinsing with warm saline 24 hours post-op (1 tsp salt in 250ml water, 3–4 times daily)
  • Resume normal brushing and flossing on non-surgical areas

Follow-Up Care

• A review appointment is often required to:
  • Assess healing
    
  • Remove sutures (if non-resorbable)
    
  • Evaluate bone and tissue response
  • Modify medications or oral hygiene routines as needed

  Schedule Your Post-Operative Visit