Fasting before a dental appointment, meaning abstaining from food and drink for a specific period before the appointment, is a common practice. This practice is primarily observed for procedures involving sedation or anesthesia.
Fasting reduces the risk of regurgitation and aspiration, which can occur if the patient vomits during or after the procedure while under the influence of sedation or anesthesia. Regurgitation and aspiration can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia.