Instructions for Children

Your Pediatric Dentist wants the best treatment for your child in a safe, pain free environment. Anesthesiologists are a special part of the pediatric dental team because they provide a safe alternative for children who need help the most.  Your child will be cared for by a board certified medical or dental anesthesiologist throughout the entire procedure. The anesthesiologist will safely sedate or put your child to sleep.  Your child will have little or no memory of the procedure, which will foster a better relationship with the dentist.

By following our instructions before and after the procedure, you can ensure that your child will have the best possible outcome and recovery. Ambulatory Anesthesia Associates has an excellent office staff to work with you. They can answer most questions about insurance participation and other methods of payment for anesthesia services. A representative from Ambulatory Anesthesia Associates will contact you by telephone with specific instructions for your child approximately one week to a few days prior to the procedure. If you would like to speak to our office sooner, we welcome your call.

General Instructions and Information

• You must ensure that your child have nothing to eat or drink after midnight on the day of the procedure.
• All children need to be accompanied by two adults; one must be a parent. Both escorts must be traveling in the same vehicle when accompanying the child home.
• Children must be able to dress down to a t-shirt with short sleeves and under shorts on the day of the appointment.
• If your child shows any sign of a cough or cold prior to the procedure, please notify our office immediately. If your child has any specific health issues, please contact us immediately so we may consult with your pediatrician.
• Plan for extra help around the home following the procedure to care for other children in the family.
• At least one parent must be present throughout the day to care for your child after the procedure.
• Your anesthesiologist will explain to you how fluid and nutrition play an important role with recovery.

If you are unable to keep your appointment, please call your dentist and our office immediately

Before the procedure:

• You and your child should arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to the scheduled surgery.
• You and your child must be accompanied by a responsible adult to drive you home.
• Transportation by BUS is prohibited. Arrangements must be made for a responsible adult to stay with your child for the rest of the day.
• We ask that your child wear loose-fitting comfortable clothes with short sleeves.

Preoperative Tests & Physical Exam

Depending on age and health, your child may be required to see your medical doctor before the surgery. Some preoperative
tests may be necessary. These tests usually consist of simple blood work and/or EKG. The type of tests your child will need are decided
by your surgeon and anesthesiologist. Your doctor will inform you as to when and where the tests can be completed.

Eating Instructions

It is very important that your child have nothing to eat or drink after midnight prior to the scheduled procedure. Your child may brush his/her teeth but do not swallow any water. If the surgery is scheduled in the afternoon, your child may have clear liquids (apple juice, broth, tea, jello) up to 3 hours before your appointment. Milk, coffee, and orange juice are not considered clear liquids. If your child has special health considerations that would not allow fasting, such as diabetes, hypoglycemia, or other problems, please tell our office when they contact you.

Prescription Medications

If your child would normally be taking prescription medications on the day of the procedure, it is important to continue them unless directed otherwise by your office. Your child’s medications may be taken with a small sip of water. If your child is unable to take them for any reason, such as they must be taken with food, contact our office for instructions.

After the procedure:

• Fluid intake & nutritional requirements are very important for the pediatric patient.
• After the child is awake and alert, encourage as many fluids as possible.
• Do not have you child return to work or school
• Have you child refrain from active play and be carefully observed by a responsible adult for the remainder of the day
• Do not have your child make any important decisions or sign any important documents.
• Your child should follow the diet plan suggested by the surgeon and anesthesiologist.

• Instructions: Our office will be calling you approximately three days before the scheduled procedure with additional instructions and to process billing. If you are unable to return our call by 3 PM the day prior to the procedure, we will not reserve your anesthesia appointment.

• Finances: We ask you to be informed of your insurance benefits and limitations. Frequently there is a “copay” or “deductible” that must be paid. Please be aware that in some instances there is little or no coverage. You may be responsible for up to $500 or more, payable at the time of the procedure. If this is a concern please call our office as soon as possible.

Call the anesthesiologist to discuss any questions or problems you may have. Our telephone answers 24 hours a day.