Procedure Instructions
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Eating and Drinking
Prior to the procedure it is CRITICAL that the patient have an empty stomach. For this reason, the patient must not have anything to eat or drink after midnight unless otherwise instructed. Before midnight you may have solids, juices, milk or infant formula. After midnight no food, drink, gum, candy or tobacco products unless otherwise instructed by your anesthesia provider. Due to the risk of pulmonary aspiration, if the patient has had anything to eat or drink, the surgery may be cancelled. Eating and drinking instructions will be thoroughly reviewed prior to the procedure.
Change in Health
Illness increases the risk of complications for the procedure. Thus if the patient develops a fever, cough or cold, please contact us immediately to determine if it is safe to proceed. We can be reached at 406-927-9488.
Personal Items
Short sleeves and loose fitting clothing are advised. Remove contact lenses and all jewelry. Please leave all valuables at home. For children, we suggest a change of clothes, diaper, favorite blanket or toy for comfort.
Family
Please do not bring other children to the office. Only one parent is necessary but if two children are having procedures then please make sure two adults are present to help with care and transportation. On the day of the procedure please plan to be with us in the office ALL day. Do not schedule any other appointments, car pools or activities this day.
Appointment Day
Our setting is much like a hospital. Delays and emergencies are inevitable. For this reason keep in mind that procedures may take longer and times may vary. Two days prior to your procedure call your dental office to confirm your appointment.
Transportation
Patients must be accompanied to and from the appointment by a responsible adult. The responsible adult should remain in the office during the appointment unless authorized by the practitioner. The patient must be driven home by a responsible adult. Public transportation or cabs are unacceptable. Without a driver it will be necessary to transport and admit the patient to the hospital at the patient’s expense. We care for you safety.
Post-Procedure Instructions
Eating and Drinking
For the first few hours limit intake to liquids such as water, clear juice, Pedialyte or sports drinks. Avoid using a straw. If liquids are tolerated then advance to soft foods such as scrambled eggs, yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes and soups. If not hungry do not force-feed. Continue to encourage liquids. Children should always be in a smoke-free and alcohol-free environment.
Activity
After surgery, anesthetic drugs remain in the patient’s system for 24 hours. This can affect reaction time and impair coordination. For 24 HOURS a quiet environment and close observation is best to prevent falling, tumbling or other injuries.
Pain or Fever
Due to the anesthetic, muscle aches, a sore throat, a fever up to 101 degrees F. or feelings similar to the flu may develop in the first 12 hours. These common symptoms usually disappear within 24-36 hours. If normally tolerated, you may take Ibuprofen or Tylenol along with plenty of fluids.
SEEK ADVICE If vomiting persists beyond four hours, if temperature remains elevated beyond the first 24 hours, or if you have any serious concern following anesthesia please contact Dr. Ryan Larsen at 406-927-9488. If you suspect a life threatening situation call 911.