Before Anesthesia

Download the Before and After Anesthesia Information Brochure

If you plan to be asleep or sedated you must follow these instructions:

  • You must not have anything to eat or drink (not even water) for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment.
  • No smoking at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking for as many days as possible prior to the surgical date.
  • A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home. A responsible adult must remain with the patient at home the day of surgery.
  • You must not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following the anesthesia experience.
  • Please wear loose-fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and low-heeled shoes.
  • Contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures must be removed prior to surgery.
  • Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.
  • If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or bowel upset, please notify the office.
  • If you take routine oral medications, please check with Dr. Turesky prior to your surgical date for instructions.
  • You must go home after surgery and stay at home the night of surgery.

Before Local Anesthesia

If you do not plan to be asleep or sedated during the procedure and you are scheduled for local anesthesia only; you may eat prior to the appointment and it is not necessary to bring an adult with you to the office unless you are under eighteen years of age.

Before Nitrous Oxide Gas Anesthesia

A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the appointment, and drive the patient home.

You must have nothing to eat or drink (including water) for 6 hours prior to the appointment.

You should not drive a motor vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours after the anesthesia experience.

Patients may not go back to school or work after nitrous oxide gas anesthesia. A responsible adult must remain home with the patient on the day of surgery.

Before Oral Sedation and Local Anesthesia

It is not necessary to fast prior to oral sedation and local anesthesia. A light meal prior to the appointment is acceptable. Large meals prior to the appointment must be avoided.

A responsible adult must drive the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.