Pre-operative Instructions

The following instructions may be helpful when preparing for your upcoming surgery. Please do not hesitate to call if you have any last minute questions. We can be reached at Iowa City Phone Number 319-337-3588 during regular business hours.

Please make sure that you notify us of any changes in your health or medications prior to your appointment.  In general, most patients are seen 1-2 weeks following surgical procedures for a short post-operative evaluation.

IV Sedation Instructions

Most procedures are performed with local anesthesia (numbing medicine), allowing you to drive yourself to and from your appointment.  Additional forms of sedation are available including Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas), oral anti-anxiety medication, and IV sedation. If after discussion with your periodontist you have elected to have IV sedation for a surgical procedure, please review the following instructions (a sheet will also be provided at your consultation visit):

Fasting

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. You may have up to 6 oz of CLEAR liquid (water, sprite, apple juice, BLACK coffee). If you have had any other food or drink within 6 hours of your sedation, we will not be able to proceed and you will be rescheduled.

Medications

You should take your usual medications with a small sip of water unless directed to do otherwise by your doctor. Please call us several days early if you: are diabetic; are on blood thinners other than aspirin; have any artificial joints; have an artificial heart valve or other heart defect.

Clothing & Nail Polish

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to permit access for the IV and monitors.  Please remove any nail polish as it can interfere with monitors.

Escort

You need an escort to come with you to your appointment to drive you home. Someone should be with you during the entire day of your procedure.

Recovery

You cannot drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after your procedure. It is advised that you not undertake any important personal or business responsibilities for 24 hours after IV sedation.

Illness

If you develop a cold, fever, or are otherwise ill prior to your scheduled procedure, please call our office at (319) 337-3588.

Food Suggestions following Oral Surgery

While many surgical procedures result in minimal soreness, it is not uncommon to have 3-4 days of discomfort for some surgical procedures.  In general, cooler, softer foods may be most comfortable, including: