5 Things to Do to Prepare for Oral Surgery
by Lonnie Bryant
Oral surgery, just like any other kind of surgical procedure, calls for advance preparation. It is mostly an outpatient affair and may involve anaesthesia. Knowing what to do before and after the procedure will help minimise any difficulties you may encounter. It will also assist you in recovering quickly. Here are a few things to do when preparing for oral surgery.
1. Ask Any Questions You Have Beforehand
Schedule an appointment with your dentist to ask them all the questions you might have concerning the procedure. Find out as many details as you can to help you prepare psychologically for the surgery. Having adequate information will help you to be more composed.
2. Organise for Your Post Surgery Transportation Needs
If you will undergo a procedure that will call for the use of anaesthesia you need to prepare in advance for your transportation after the surgery. Many patients underestimate how much of an impact some oral surgeries can have on them and have trouble returning home afterwards since they can't drive. Have a relative or friend drive you to and from the dentist's office or use a taxi. You can also use public transport.
3. Follow the Food, Drink and Smoking Rules
Do not smoke cigarettes 12 hours before the surgery. Note that you'll also not be allowed to smoke for 24 hours after the surgery. If local anaesthesia will be administered, you can eat one or two hours before the surgery. Ensure you brush and floss thoroughly after the meal. If the dentist will administer intravenous (IV) or general anaesthesia, you shouldn't eat or drink eight to 12 hours before the surgery.
4. Dress Appropriately
Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing as you will be lying in a dentist chair for a while. Do not wear contact lenses if anaesthesia will be involved as your eyes will be closed for a while and they might irritate your eyes.
5. Adjust Your Diet Beforehand
Prepare the meals you will eat after the oral surgery in advance. Soft foods are necessary to avoid putting too much stress on your teeth and gums as they heal. Dentists recommend avoiding acidic or spicy food not to irritate the gums during recovery.
Conclusion
Preparing for oral surgery begins from before you step through the dentist's office doors for the procedure. Find out in advance what you need to know to help you prepare adequately for pre-and post-surgical care and recovery.
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About Me
There are more than two ways to straighten a smile, and in this blog, I plan to discuss them all. I plan to look at the differences between braces and retainers and explain why sometimes you may need them both. I look at the differences in cost, time commitment and efficacy. Personally, I have had a bit of experience with this subject – I had braces as a young teen, and I had a permanent retainer. In this blog, I discuss what I have learned, and I present all kinds of new information on the topic. Whether you are trying to make decisions for yourself or your child. I hope you find this information useful.