Is it Safe to Eat and Drink Before Surgery?
Prior to undergoing surgery, it is crucial to have an empty stomach. Although the human body has natural mechanisms to prevent regurgitation of food and drink, these protective responses may not work properly while under anesthesia. To minimize the risk of aspiration, it is essential to have an empty stomach before surgery. It is important to have a conversation with both your anesthesiologist and surgeon to discuss specific nutritional guidelines.
Does Intubation Pose a Risk to Dental Health?
When patients undergo anesthesia, they may need intubation, a procedure that involves inserting a tube into the throat to maintain open airways. During intubation, it is possible for the tube to come into contact with your teeth. While this generally does not cause any harm to healthy teeth, it is important to inform the anesthesiologist if you have any loose, crowned, or capped teeth, as well as dentures, crowns, or bridges. Discussing your dental concerns with the anesthetist is crucial to ensure appropriate care is taken during the procedure.