Oral Surgery Tips from Dental Surgeons

It’s normal to feel anxious before an oral surgery, but preparing for the event beforehand can help ensure that everything goes smoothly. First, ask your oral surgeon what to expect before, during and after the procedure. Discuss your anesthesia or sedation options. Dental surgeons usually offer distractions such as music or television for anxious patients, so you may be able to customize your experience. Find out if you will need any prescription medications such as antibiotics or pain medicines after the surgery. If these are required, arrange for another party to pick them up for you. You probably won’t be able to drive yourself to the pharmacy to get them, and you may not feel like waiting in line.

Arrange for a Designated Driver



With some types of anesthesia, you may not be able to drive yourself home. Ask a friend or family member to drive you to the clinic on your surgery date. The designated driver will need to stay throughout the procedure, and see that you get home safely. If you are a parent of small children, you may want to hire a babysitter to help while you recover.

Eating, Drinking, and Smoking: What Oral Surgeons Recommend



Oral surgeons usually give patients specific instructions for eating, drinking, and smoking before and after a scheduled surgery, especially if general anesthesia will be used. Follow these instructions carefully:

• You should avoid eating and drinking for eight hours before general anesthesia.
• If your surgery only requires a local anesthetic, you may have a light meal one to two hours before the surgery.
• Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes, and do not wear jewelry or contact lenses.
• You should not smoke for 12 hours before the surgery and at least 24 hours after its completion.

Diet Following Oral Surgery

Dental surgeons generally recommend eating soft foods after oral surgery. Meal replacement products such as Boost, Ensure, and SlimFast may be valuable if you are unable to get the nutrients you need from soft food options. Plan to take it easy for a few hours or days as you recover. If you experience any unusual pain, swelling, or bleeding during your recovery, contact your oral surgeon for advice.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Indiana, call Wadas Dental today or make an appointment.