If you’re having oral surgery, there are a few things you will need to do prior to your procedure. Be sure to follow these ten easy steps when gearing up for the big day!
1. Carefully read your pre-op instructions.
If your dentist provides you with any instructions prior to your surgery, make sure you read them! This will give you information regarding your anesthesia and how to prepare for it. It will also list any special instructions that are particularly pertinent to your specific procedure.
2. Pick up your medication in advance.
Once you’ve had your surgery, you will need to be in full recovery mode. Therefore, you won’t be able to leave the house for medication. Be sure to head to the pharmacy before your procedure to pick up any medications you will need during your recovery process.
3. Ask a family member or friend for a ride.
After anesthesia, you will not be able to drive a car or get home by yourself. Therefore, be sure to ask a family member or friend to take you to your visit and bring you home. If no one is available to bring you, you will need to wait at the dentist’s office for a while until it is safe for you to call a cab.
4. Head to the grocery store.
You will have a pretty strict diet after your oral surgery. Therefore, be certain to pick up the right foods to help you through recovery! When you’re shopping, stick to only healthy beverages like water, tea, milk, protein drinks. You’ll also need to stick to softer foods for a few days. Avoid any acidic or spicy foods, as well as any beverage that would require a straw.
5. Fast.
If you’re going to have anesthesia, your dentist will recommend that you do not eat or drink anything for at least eight hours prior to your surgery. If you need to take medication, only use a small sip of water if necessary. Doing so will help you to avoid any risk of aspiration during surgery.
6. Select the right clothing.
You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing for your procedure. Avoid wearing any shirts with sleeves, as nurses will need your arms to be available for taking your vital signs, giving an IV, or monitoring your blood pressure.
7. Do not smoke.
You should not smoke tobacco products for at least 12 hours prior to your surgery, and for at least 24 hours after your treatment.
8. Arrive early.
Make sure you plan to arrive at your appointment about 20 minutes early. This will give you time to fill out any necessary last-minute paper work and ask any lingering questions you might have.
9. Get a good night’s sleep.
It is always important to get a good night’s sleep prior to your procedure. Ask your dentist if there are any sleeping positions they recommend in order to avoid placing pressure on your mouth (if it is relevant to your particular procedure).
10. Ask any outstanding questions.
If you have any questions about your procedure, your recovery, or even the risks and benefits, be sure to ask! At Olympia Fields Dental Associates, we want our patients to feel well-informed and confident before any oral surgery.
If you have any questions about your oral surgery, don’t hesitate to ask! Call Olympia Fields Dental Associates in Olympia Fields today to speak with our helpful staff.