Before and After Instruction for Children Receiving Oral Sedation
 

ARRIVING AND LEAVING:
A parent or legal guardian must accompany the patient to the dental office and must remain until treatment is completed. UPON ARRIVAL, YOUR CHILD’S VITALS WILL BE CHECKED AND THE OFFICE STAFF WILL GIVE YOUR CHILD THE MEDICATION. You will then wait with your child in the reception area while the medication takes effect. During this time, please monitor the patient and if he/she experiences any changes (such as upset stomach, rash, extreme drowsiness, or breathing problems) inform the office staff IMMEDIATELY. Also, the parent or legal guardian should be available to drive the patient home and carefully secure in a car seat or seat belt during transportation.

EATING AND DRINKING (BEFORE TREATMENT):
To avoid vomiting and complications during treatment with sedation and anesthesia, DO NOT allow the patient to take in any food 3 hours before your appointment. Your child may have clear fluids (e.g. clear apple juice, water) for up to 2 hours before the appointment.

EATING AND DRINKING (AFTER TREATMENT):
It is important for the patient to be well hydrated after treatment. Small drinks taken repeatedly is preferable than taking large amounts. Warm soft food may be taken when desired and in small portions. The cheeks, lips, or tongue will be numb after treatment. Please avoid foods that require chewing until the numbness wears off. Remind patient to refrain from self-checking for numbness by poking or chewing on the numbed area.

CHANGE IN HEALTH:
If there are any changes in the patient’s health, such as a chest cold or fever within 7 days before day of the treatment, please reschedule the appointment. Inform the office of any change in health before your appointment.

WHAT TO WEAR:
Please remove contact lenses and do not wear jewelry or fingernail polish. Please wear comfortable clothing that is not restrictive, preferably a short sleeved shirt and low heeled shoes. If weather is cool, please wear a jacket or sweater that is easily removable.

MEDICATIONS:
Give the patient only those medications that he or she takes routinely, such as seizure, diabetes medications or prophylactic antibiotics, and those prescribed by your child’s physician. DO NOT give your child any other medicines, before or after treatment, without checking with the office.

ACTIVITIES:
Patient should rest a minimum of 8 hours after sedation. DO NOT plan activities for the child after treatment. Allow the child to rest. Closely supervise any activity for the remainder of the day..

FOR YOUR SAFETY, FAILURE TO FOLLOW ANY OF THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN RESCHEDULING OF YOUR APPOINTMENT.