If you need oral surgery, you should prepare yourself so that the treatment goes smoothly and you recover quickly at home. Oral surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure and uses either general or local anesthesia.
Oral procedures should be treated in the same way as any other surgery from the patient’s standpoint. To avoid infection, you must adopt specific tips and follow post-operative instructions. Some of the tips to follow have been mentioned in the sections below.
It is astonishing to find out how many individuals clam up when speaking with an oral surgeon regarding a dental surgery. They will pay close attention while information about the procedure, anesthesia, and recuperation time is presented to them but refrain from asking questions that they believe are foolish or make them uncomfortable.
Don’t leave any questions unanswered. Inform your surgeon if you have a health problem or are receiving medical treatment that you haven’t yet mentioned. This includes any prescription or over-the-counter medications you may be taking. The more information the dentist has, the better chance you’ll have of avoiding issues and drug interactions.
If you are concerned about any aspect of the procedure, such as the type of anesthetic used, inquire about its safety and whether there are any alternatives. Knowing these things is not a courtesy; it is your right.
Finally, double-check that your insurance covers the surgery and that you won’t be surprised if your claim is denied. Work with your dentist on this and, if necessary, obtain a written description of the procedure with ICD-10 codes to ensure coverage with your insurance company.
While this suggestion may seem obvious, many people underestimate the consequences of various oral operations.
In most cases, having a friend or family member accompany you to work and drive you home is preferable. Don’t deceive yourself into thinking you can drive if this isn’t possible. Even local anesthetic might stifle your reflexes and make you shakier behind the wheel. If you opt to take a taxi or use a cab app, wait until you are advised it is safe to leave before ordering the service.
If you live alone and have a more complicated operation, arrange for someone to be with you overnight. If you have children, arrange for child care or have food prepared ahead of time, so you don’t have to bother about cooking when you get home.
If you had general anesthesia, it is generally recommended that you should not drive for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
If your surgeon plans to use an intravenous (IV) or general anesthetic, you’ll need to follow the exact pre-operative instructions as everyone else.
You should not eat or drink anything for eight to twelve hours before your procedure, including water. If you need a local anesthetic, you may be able to have a light meal one to two hours before the process but make sure you brush and floss correctly beforehand. It’s also crucial to remember that you can’t smoke for at least 12 hours before an oral surgery and for at least 24 hours after that.
Prepare for your procedure by dressing comfortably. Wear clothes that are short-sleeved, loose-fitting, and comfy. This is especially critical if you have an IV drip scheduled.
Although the doctor and staff will do their best to avoid staining your clothes, you should dress in something you don’t mind getting dirty just in case. Additionally, wear no jewelry because you may be requested to take it off before some operations. If you’re having general anesthesia, avoid using contact lenses because your eyes may be shut for a long time.
Makeup and lipstick are not permitted. Avoid wearing any fragrances, colognes, or body sprays out of courtesy. If your hair is really voluminous, you may want to tie or pin it back.
Prepare a menu of soft food items that don’t require much chewing. Avoid meals that are hot or acidic, as they can irritate the gums. During your early recuperation, protein drinks like Boost, SlimFast, or Ensure are good providers of nutrients. Oatmeal and other quick-to-cook dishes are also excellent choices.
Avoid drinking beverages with a straw, even if it seems logical, especially after tooth extraction. Sucking on a straw can result in a painful condition called a dry socket, which may require additional treatment at the dental office. We hope that you now know the tips to prepare for oral surgery. Here at Singh Smile Care, we offer top-quality oral surgery treatment in Glendale, AZ. Schedule your visit in case of necessity.