Many people worry about whether to fast before a tooth extraction or filling. In practice most ordinary dental procedures do not require it, and only a few simple preparations are needed.
- For a check-up, scaling, filling or extraction under local anaesthesia, you usually do not need to fast.
- Eat lightly and freshen your mouth before you come; fast only if the dentist gives separate instructions.
- Bring identification, your insurance card if you use it, earlier X-rays and a list of your medicines.
- Tell the dentist about medical conditions, medicines, allergies and pregnancy so treatment is safe.
Do you need to fast before a dental visit?
For a check-up, scaling, a filling, or an extraction under local anaesthesia, you usually do not need to fast. In fact, eating lightly beforehand helps you feel less tired, especially if the procedure is long or if you will not be able to chew normally right after the anaesthetic.
Only in a few special cases will the dentist ask you to fast, for example if methods that put you under general relief of pain are needed. In that case you will be told clearly beforehand, and you simply follow the instructions.
What should you eat beforehand?
- Eat lightly and moderately, choosing food that is easy to digest.
- Avoid very spicy or heavily seasoned food, or food that sticks in teeth if you are already in pain.
- Brush and freshen your mouth before you come so the visit goes more smoothly.
What should you bring?
- Identification, and your health insurance card if you use insurance. You may read our article on what to bring for an insured dental visit.
- Any earlier X-rays, results or prescriptions related to your teeth.
- A list of the medicines you take and any medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, blood pressure problems or allergies.
What should you tell the dentist?
Tell the dentist how long it has hurt, what kind of pain it is, whether there is swelling or fever, whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and whether you have ever reacted to any medicine. This helps the dentist choose a safe approach. You may also prepare a few questions beforehand, and we have an article on what to ask the dentist before treatment.
When is the most convenient time to come?
Kỳ Hòa sees patients in order of queue number, so you may wait at busy hours. You can call the hotline to ask about quieter time slots or walk in during opening hours. You may also read how often a routine dental check-up is reasonable.
Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa is at 266A - 268, 3 Tháng 2 Street, Hòa Hưng Ward, Ho Chi Minh City; hotline 028.3868.1097, Zalo 082.299.3377.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before wisdom tooth removal?
For removal under local anaesthesia you usually do not need to fast. Eat lightly before you come, and follow any separate instructions from the dentist.
Should I take medicine before the visit if my tooth hurts?
Please do not take medicine on your own without instruction. Come in so the dentist can find the cause and advise what is suitable.
Do I need to tell the dentist about my medical conditions?
Yes. Heart disease, diabetes, blood pressure, allergies or pregnancy all affect how treatment is done, so please tell the dentist.