Oral surgeries are common, and many will experience them at some point in their lives. Whether it’s getting your wisdom teeth removed, receiving All-on-4 dental implant surgery, or correcting jaw alignment, oral surgery can greatly improve your dental health and overall well-being. According to the American Dental Association, millions of people in the United States undergo some form of oral surgery each year.
If you have an upcoming oral surgery appointment, it’s natural to feel a bit nervous and anxious. However, by preparing yourself beforehand, you can ease your worries and ensure a smooth recovery process.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with 14 tips for preparing for your oral surgery so that you can feel confident about your upcoming procedure.
Let’s get started:
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Pre-Op Instructions
When you go in for your consultation, your oral surgeon will give you specific pre-operative instructions to follow in preparation for the surgery. These often include dietary restrictions and medication guidelines. Your dentist’s careful coordination of care with your medical doctors in advance of your surgery will ensure you have a smooth procedure and easy recovery.
As tempting as it may be to ignore or modify these instructions, it’s essential to follow them closely. Deviating from these guidelines can often lead to complications and hinder your recovery.
Take the time to go over these instructions with your dentist, and be sure to ask any questions you may have. It’s also helpful to have a written copy of these instructions to refer back to as needed.
2. Arrange Transportation in Advance
Some oral surgeries are performed under sedation. After being sedated for your oral surgery, you will not be able to drive yourself home. According to the Cleveland Clinic, doctors recommend refraining from driving for at least 24 hours after receiving anesthesia. As such, it’s crucial to arrange transportation in advance.
Make sure you have someone available to drive you to and from the appointment. Ideally, this person should also be able to stay with you for a few hours afterward in case of any complications or discomfort.
At Bayway Dental, we carefully review your transportation plans in advance of your sedation visit to ensure you have a trusted caregiver to bring you home. Ride services such as Uber or Lyft are not permitted transportation options after oral surgery, as a caregiver needs to ensure you safely arrive in your home and are properly cared for.
3. Stock Up on Post-Oral Surgery Essentials
After your dental surgery, you’ll want to take it easy and rest as much as possible. By stocking up on post-oral surgery essentials beforehand, you won’t have to worry about running errands or going out for supplies.
Some items we recommend having on hand include:
- Soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, and soup
- Ice packs or frozen peas for swelling
- Pain medication prescribed by your surgeon
- Gauze pads for bleeding and wound care
Having these essentials ready will make your recovery process smoother and more comfortable. It’s also a good idea to have some entertainment options available, such as books, movies, or TV shows, to keep you occupied during your recovery.
4. Ask Questions About Anesthesia
At Bayway Dental, we offer both oral conscious sedation and IV Sedation. It’s essential to discuss your options with your surgeon and ask any questions you may have about the type of sedation being used.
Some common questions you may want to ask include:
- What are the potential side effects and risks of this type of anesthesia?
- How long will it take to wear off after the procedure?
- Will I feel any pain or discomfort during the surgery?
Understanding the details of your sedation visit can help alleviate any fears or concerns you may have before going into surgery. At Bayway Dental, we pride ourselves on our patient education and will always take the time to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
5. Organize Your Home for Recovery
After your dental surgery, you may experience some discomfort and limited mobility. To make your recovery at home as easy as possible, it’s important to organize your living space beforehand.
First, make sure you have a comfortable place to rest. This could be a recliner or a bed with extra pillows for support. It’s also helpful to have a table nearby with items like water, tissues, and medications within reach.
Next, eliminate any potential hazards that could cause accidents or falls. Secure loose rugs or cluttered areas and ensure no obstacles in the path from your resting area to the bathroom.
6. Schedule Time Off from Work or School
While everyone’s recovery time may vary, it’s important to schedule time off work or school to allow yourself enough time to rest and heal. Depending on the type of oral surgery you have, your oral surgeon may recommend anywhere from a few days to a week off for complete recovery.
It’s crucial not to rush back into your daily routine too quickly, as this can hinder the healing process and cause complications. Take the necessary time off and focus on taking care of yourself during this period. If possible, try to schedule your surgery during a slower period at work or school so that you won’t feel overwhelmed when returning.
7. Plan for Childcare and Pet Care
In some cases, oral surgery may limit your ability to care for children or pets. If your dentist has recommended a period of rest and limited activity, be sure to have a plan in place for childcare and pet care before the procedure begins.
This could mean asking a family member or friend to help out – or hiring a professional caregiver for the time being.
8. Avoid Eating or Drinking After Midnight (If Required)
Some types of oral surgery may require you to fast for a certain amount of time before the procedure. This is typically done to prevent any potential complications during the surgery, such as vomiting or aspiration.
If your dentist or oral surgeon has instructed you to avoid eating or drinking after midnight, follow these guidelines strictly.
9. Wear Comfortable Clothing on Day of Dental Surgery
Most oral surgeries are made better by wearing comfortable clothing. This is especially true for surgeries that may require you to lay down or recline for an extended period of time. Loose-fitting clothing, such as sweatpants and a t-shirt, can help you feel more relaxed during the procedure and make it easier for you to move around afterwards.
It’s also a good idea to wear something that you don’t mind getting dirty or stained, as there may be some bleeding or oozing from the surgical site.
10. Get Plenty of Rest the Night Before Surgery
A good night’s sleep before your oral surgery can help you feel more relaxed and prepared for the procedure. Make sure to get plenty of rest and avoid staying up too late the night before.
If you have trouble falling asleep, try engaging in calming activities such as reading a book or listening to soothing music. Avoid using electronic devices or watching TV, as the blue light emitted from these screens can disrupt your sleep.
11. Arrange for a Friend or Family Member to Assist You After Surgery
Some types of dental surgery may require you to have a ride home and someone to assist you with daily tasks for a day or two. This is especially important if you will be under the influence of anesthesia or prescribed pain medication.
Make sure to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home and stay with you until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. They can also help with tasks such as getting food, medications, and ice packs while you recover.
12. Follow Post-Op Instructions Carefully
After your surgery, your dentist will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
Some common post-operative instructions may include:
- Taking prescribed medications as directed, including painkillers and antibiotics
- Avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period of time
- Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or chewy foods that can irritate the surgical site
- Keeping the surgical area clean by gently rinsing it with warm salt water
- Avoiding smoking or using straws, as these actions can dislodge blood clots and impede healing. Painful dry-socket can result from smoking or vaping after surgery.
By following post-op instructions carefully, you can get back to your normal routine as soon as possible.
13. Stay Hydrated and Stick to Soft Foods
After surgery, your mouth may be sore and tender. To avoid irritation and promote healing, it is important to stay hydrated and stick to soft foods that are easy to eat.
Some examples of soft foods include:
- Smoothies
- Mashed potatoes
- Soup
- Scrambled eggs
- Yogurt
14. Reach Out to Your Dentist’s Office
Finally, remember that your dentist’s office is there to support you during your recovery. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance. They can provide you with additional tips and recommendations for a smooth recovery process.
Additionally, if you experience excessive bleeding, swelling, or severe pain that is not relieved by medication, contact your dentist’s office immediately. These could be signs of complications that require attention. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, most complications can be successfully treated if acted upon quickly.
The Wrap Up
As you can see, preparing for oral surgery and caring for yourself after the procedure is crucial for a successful recovery. By following these tips, you can minimize discomfort and promote healing, leading to a quicker recovery time.
Ready to get the care you need?
At Bayway Dental, we routinely perform most dental procedures and surgeries right at our office in St. Petersburg, FL. We offer oral and IV Dental Sedation not only to help alleviate dental anxiety, but also ensure our patients get the care they need in the most efficient manner. Our personalized aftercare instructions ensure your comfort and healing. From surgical extractions to dental implants and more, Dr. Sherberg is dedicated to providing you with exceptional long-lasting dental treatment.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
