Pre-Operative Instructions for Oral Surgery

Before your surgery, stop eating and drinking 8 hours ahead, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you, and dress for an IV. The full checklist below covers every step.

Pre-Operative Instructions Checklist

Eating and drinking

• Do not eat or drink anything, including water, for 8 hours before your appointment.
• For pediatric patients under age 12, our doctors will provide specific instructions on when to eat or drink before surgery.

Your ride and the next 24 hours

• A responsible adult must come with you to the office.
• That adult must stay in the office during your procedure.
• That adult must drive you home afterward.
• Do not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours after anesthesia.

What to wear and remove

• Wear loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that roll up past the elbow.
• Wear low-heeled shoes.
• Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures at the time of surgery.
• Keep at least one finger free of fingernail polish.

What you may notice after anesthesia

• Your vision may be blurred for a time. Do not be alarmed.
• A black and blue bruise may appear at an injection site.
• Your arm may be bruised, swollen, and tender to the touch due to the IV.

How Long Should I Avoid Food and Water Before Oral Surgery?

Do not eat or drink anything, including water, for 8 hours before your appointment. Pediatric patients under age 12 follow different guidance. For these children, our doctors will give you specific instructions on when your child may eat or drink before surgery. Contact our office if any part of these instructions is unclear.

Can I Drive Myself Home After Anesthesia?

No. A responsible adult must come with you to the office, stay in the office during your procedure, and drive you home. After anesthesia, do not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours. Plan your ride before surgery day so a family member or trusted adult is ready.

Should I Worry About Bruising or Blurred Vision After Anesthesia?

There is no need to be alarmed. Your vision may be blurred for a time after anesthesia. A black and blue bruise may appear at the site of an injection. Your arm may also be bruised, swollen, and tender to the touch because of the IV. Contact our office with any questions.

What Should I Wear on Surgery Day?

Wear loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that roll up past the elbow, plus low-heeled shoes. Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures at the time of surgery. Keep at least one finger free of fingernail polish. Review this list the night before your appointment so you arrive ready for your procedure.