May I eat before dental surgery?

For most dental procedures under local anaesthetic you may eat normally. A light meal before your appointment helps to prevent you from feeling faint. For treatments under sedation or general anaesthesia you must fast beforehand. Your practitioner will give you clear instructions about this in advance. After the procedure, eating is often temporarily difficult or uncomfortable. So choose nutritious, soft food beforehand. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals just before treatment. If in doubt, it is wise to discuss this with the practice beforehand. Make sure you drink enough, unless you are instructed to limit this. Good preparation contributes to a smooth procedure.