Patient Information & What to Expect with Valleygate
Thank you for entrusting Valleygate with your or your child’s care. We know the day of surgery can be stressful, so this page is designed to give you clear, helpful, and reassuring information. We encourage you to read through this section thoroughly and reach out if you have any questions.
At Valleygate, our mission is simple: provide safe, comfortable, and high-quality outpatient dental surgery in a patient-centered setting. Our specially trained team monitors every patient continuously before, during, and after the procedure, ensuring the highest standards of care. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Why Choose a Surgery Center Over an Office Setting?
Performing dental surgery in a dedicated ambulatory surgery center brings several advantages:
- Advanced monitoring and life support systems designed for patient safety
- Anesthesia care conducted by board-certified anesthesiologists and CRNAs
- Purpose-built operating rooms with hydraulic dental chairs, delivery systems, and digital imaging
- A controlled, sterile environment optimized for surgical efficiency and fewer distractions
- Clear, structured surgical instructions and patient education to guide your experience
You can explore more detailed guidance on our Pre-Surgery Instructions, What to Expect the Day of Surgery, Post-Surgery Instructions, After Extractions, and After Multiple Extractions pages. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Pre-Surgery Instructions
THE DAYS BEFORE SURGERY / PRE-SURGERY
- Have your child’s Primary Care Physician complete and fax the Pre-admission History and Physical Form promptly for review by our anesthesiologist and pre-admission nurse.
- Our anesthesiologist and/or pre-admission nurse will contact you to review medical history, answer questions, and discuss surgery prep, discharge plans, home care, and arrival time.
- Fill any prescribed antibiotics or pain medications before surgery day.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT
DON’T FORGET YOUR DOCUMENTS!
- Bring your child’s current insurance card or other relevant insurance information. Be prepared to pay any copays or deductibles with an accepted payment method.
- Bring a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license, military ID, or passport). A legal guardian must bring the minor patient and show valid, non-expired ID.
- If a legal guardian cannot be present on the day of surgery, please call our office several days in advance to complete the paperwork needed for another adult to accompany the child.
- Bring any legal documents related to Guardianship, Emancipation, or Power of Attorney. These documents will be added to the patient’s chart before surgery begins. Please note: Our facility does not honor Living Wills or DNR orders. If your child has one, we will place a copy in the medical record. If a hospital transfer becomes necessary, this copy will be sent with the patient.
Getting ready for a dental procedure begins with the right preparation. Our Pre-Surgery Instructions outline everything you need to know before anesthesia, including fasting guidelines, arrival times, wellness checks, and important safety steps. Reviewing this information carefully will help reduce stress and ensure a smooth experience. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
What to Expect the Day of Surgery
Your comfort and confidence are our priorities. On this page, you’ll find step-by-step details about the day of surgery — from preparing beforehand, to what happens during anesthesia, to caring for yourself or your child afterward. Whether the procedure is routine or more complex, these instructions are designed to make the entire process easier. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Arrival – It’s Surgery Day!
Post-Surgery Instructions
Recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. Our Post-Surgery Instructions provide simple, clear guidance on what to expect after surgery, how to manage discomfort, tips for healthy healing, and when to contact your provider with concerns. These easy-to-follow directions are designed to keep recovery safe, smooth, and worry-free. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
After Extractions
It’s common to have questions after a tooth is removed. Our Extractions Instructions are here to help you care for yourself or your child at home, manage discomfort, and encourage proper healing. From eating and rest recommendations to signs that may require follow-up, this page makes recovery easier and less stressful. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
After Multiple Extractions
When several teeth are removed at once, recovery needs a little extra attention. Our Multiple Extractions Instructions provide clear guidance on easing discomfort, reducing swelling, caring for the mouth, and choosing foods that promote healing. With these step-by-step tips, we help give you peace of mind and the confidence to manage recovery at home. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Going Home
- The Anesthesiologist is responsible for determining when your child is stable, oriented and able to go home. A recovery nurse will review home-care instructions ordered by the attending provider regarding diet, level of activity, prescribed medications, resuming regular medications, and other specific information. You will receive a copy of these instructions as well as emergency contact numbers in the unlikely event your child requires medical assistance after you leave.
- Once at home, it is highly suggested that your child rest for the remainder of the day as the body needs time to recover from the stress surgery. Please follow ALL instructions. Gradually your child will resume normal activities.
- The attending provider will call you on the evening of the procedure and a Valleygate nurse will call you the next business day to see how your child is doing and to answer any questions. Please discuss with the nurse the time and day you will be available to take her call.
- For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Billing & Coverage Details
Understanding how your procedure will be billed is just as important as the care itself. On our Insurance page, you’ll find a clear list of the medical plans we accept—such as Medicaid, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more—and helpful details about payment options, billing, and how insurance claims work. Whether you’re navigating coverage, arranging financing, or curious about facility fees and anesthesia costs, this page is a great starting point. For more support, explore our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Still Have Questions?
If you’d like further clarification or have unique health considerations, our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page is a great starting point. And of course, you’re always welcome to contact our staff directly; we’re here to support you every step of the way.
