First Visit
Your initial appointment will consist of an examination followed by a consultation and discussion of the diagnosis and the treatment options. Occasionally, surgery can be performed on the same day as the consultation. However, a separate appointment for the treatment might be appropriate.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your consultation:
- Your surgical referral slip and any x-rays, if applicable.
- A list of all medications you are currently taking.
- If you have medical or dental insurance, bring the necessary forms, completed. This will save time and allow us to help you in processing claims faster.
IMPORTANT: All patients under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at the consultation visit.
A preoperative consultation and physical examination is mandatory for patients undergoing IV anesthesia for surgery.
Please alert the office of any past or present medical condition (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are currently taking any medications (i.e., heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.).
X-Rays
If your dentist or physician has taken x-rays you may request that they forward them to our office. If there is not enough time, please pick them up and bring them to our office. If additional films are necessary they can be taken at our facility.
If you require Intravenous Anesthesia Sedation
- You may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for eight hours prior to the appointment.
- No smoking for at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking as soon as possible prior to the day of surgery.
- A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.
- The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following anesthesia.
- Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and low-heeled shoes.
- Contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures must be removed at the time of surgery.
- Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.
- If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or upset bowels, please notify the office.
- If you take routine oral medications, please check with Dr. Ringler prior to your surgical date for instructions.