 
Sleep Dentistry, which includes sedation and general anaesthesia, is provided by Dr. Ziggy Wojtasik and his team of medical anaesthesiologists.
This service is necessary for those young children who have multiple severe cavities and are unable to safely co-operate with simple freezing. The decision to go this route will be made by the parents and the dentist. Parents may also want to consult with Dr. Ziggy Wojtasik and the child's physician.
History & Physical Examination: Required for general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation.
To be completed by your family physician.
What is ambulatory anaesthesia?
Ambulatory (or out-patient) anaesthesia has been proven to be safe, convenient and can be performed in a variety of facilities. You have your procedure performed in a hospital, a free-standing surgical center or in a dental surgeon's office.
Short-acting anaesthesia agents and specialized anaesthetic techniques as well as care specifically focused to the needs of the ambulatory patient are used to make your experience a more pleasant one. In general, if you are in reasonably good health, you are a candidate for ambulatory anaesthesia. Because each patient is unique, your anaesthetist will carefully evaluate you and your health status to determine if you should undergo ambulatory anaesthesia.
After your initial recovery from anaesthesia, you will return directly home. Patients do well with the assistance of their family and friends.
How will I meet my Anaesthetist?
Before you receive anaesthesia, your anaesthetist will gather the information needed to evaluate your general health. You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your previous anaesthetic experiences, any medical conditions, medications and allergies you may have. Your anaesthetist will interview you before your anaesthesia. If you have any particular concerns, you should ask your anaesthetist.
What about eating or drinking before my anaesthesia?
Do not eat solid food a minimum of 6 hours before your appointment. Food in your stomach may cause vomiting during the procedure. No milk, juices with pulp, coffee, gum, candy or mints either.
You may drink one glass of clear fluids up to three hours before your appointment. Clear fluids are water, apple juice and soda pop.
Will I need someone to drive me home?
Yes, you must make arrangements for a responsible adult to take you home after your anaesthetic or sedation. You will not be allowed to leave alone or drive yourself home. It is strongly suggested you have someone stay with you during the first 24 hours. These instructions are important for your safety. If you do not follow the physician's instructions about not eating and having an adult take you home, your surgery may be canceled.
Should I take my usual mediation?
Some mediations should be taken and others should not. It is important to discuss this with your anaesthetist. Do not interrupt medication unless your anaesthetist recommends it.
What will happen before my surgery?
Most commonly, you will meet your anaesthetist, who will care for you, on the day of your surgery. Your anaesthetist will then review your medical and anesthesia history and answer further questions you may have. Monitoring devices will be attached such as a blood pressure cuff, EKG and other devices for your safety. If at all possible, wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
What will happen during my surgery?
Your anaesthetist is personally responsible for your comfort and well-being. During your surgery, your anaesthetist will direct your anaesthesia and manage your vital body function.
What can I expect until I go home?
After you wake up, you will be watched closely by the anaesthetist and specially trained staff. You will be in your chair for about an hour while being monitored then a short time in the waiting room. You may leave only after the anaesthetist says it is safe.
What can I expect at home?
Be prepared to go home and finish your recovery there. Patients often experience minor after-effects following ambulatory anaesthesia such as drowsiness, muscle aches, a sore throat and occasional dizziness or headaches. Nausea may also be present, but vomiting is less common. These side effects decline rapidly in the hours following surgery, but may take several days before they are gone completely. The majority of patients do not feel up to their typical activities the next day, usually due to tiredness or surgical discomfort. Plan to take it easy for a few days until you feel back to normal. Know that a period of recovery at home is common and to be expected.
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