Redondo & Manhattan Beach: 310-375-0514 | If you are contemplating having oral surgery, here is what you should know to best prepare yourself for a hassle-free experience. Know that you are in good company as millions of people just like you undergo oral surgery for one of the following conditions:
- Tooth Extraction
- Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Dental Implants
- Procedures to Relieve Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Apicoectomy
- Facial Reconstruction
- Frenectomy
Fortunately, preparing beforehand for oral surgery can provide a better possible experience for you and your smile.
Pre-Surgery Consultation
Review what you can expect during your surgery:
Our oral surgeon is happy to review what you can expect from your surgery and address your concerns so let us know your current health issues or medications you are taking. Share any previous surgeries you may have had and which medications could affect your procedure or recovery.
Review your sedation options:
Let’s determine which sedation option or general anesthesia would help you feel most comfortable during your treatment. Factors we’ll consider include your level of anxiety, the length and complexity of your treatment, and even your pain tolerance. We want to make sure you can relax fully during your treatment.
Review your dental insurance and financing options:
Our experienced team members are familiar with most medical and dental insurance plans and are happy to help you get the most from your current benefits. Now is a good time to check in with your insurance company so there will be no surprises later.
Arrange a driver to take you to and from your surgery:
Since it takes a while for local anesthesia to wear off completely, you won’t feel like driving. Enlist a friend, family member, or a transportation company to return you home safely.
Fast anywhere from eight to ten hours before your treatment:
No food or drink to allow your stomach to empty and prevent pulmonary aspiration of stomach contents during general anesthesia.
Fill prescriptions in advance:
Make sure to pick up any pain medications, antibiotics, or other prescriptions you might need before your surgery so you can have them available when you are back home.
Secure a caretaker for post-surgery care:
Enlist someone to stay with you for a day or two while recovering from your surgery. It can also help in case you have a complication requiring immediate medical attention.
Fill your kitchen with soft foods:
Foods you can safely eat include soft foods like yogurt, apple sauce, liquid soups and smoothies to avoid any food particles getting stuck in your gums as your mouth recovers from the surgery.
Dress for your surgery:
Casual comfort is key, as is wearing short sleeves so you can easily receive an IV drip. Leave your jewelry (and contacts) at home since your eyes will be closed under anesthesia.
Aftercare
Even though the stronger effects of sedation will wear off within an hour after your surgery, the residual effects from sedation and anesthesia often linger from 12 to 24 afterward. Don’t drink using a straw to avoid dislodging blood clots or causing dry sockets. Rest for the remainder of the day and make yourself as comfortable as possible. Sleep or relax with your favorite book, music, movies, or streaming shows you enjoy.
By taking the time to be fully prepared for your oral surgery, you will have a better experience, and we are always ready to help you with that! Give us a call if you have any questions about your surgery.