How to Prepare for Oral Surgery
Did you know that Americans have lost an average of 10 teeth by the age of 50? As a result, dental implants are incredibly popular. They’re effective and realistic, and many oral surgeons offer them. If your dentist has recommended dental implants, you have an upcoming oral surgery to prepare for! Don’t worry, you’ll be fine and you’ll leave one step closer to a completely restored smile.
We’re here to talk about how you can prepare for surgery and avoid complications. Read on to learn more.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Many people think that by asking their oral surgeon questions, they’ll be annoying or bothersome. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Oral surgeons understand that their patients may not know much about the surgeries they’re getting and that they may be worried.
If you have a consultation with your oral surgeon, or even with your general dentist, ask whatever questions come to mind, even if they seem “silly.”
Your dentist or surgeon will likely provide you with pre-op instructions. If they don’t provide written or typed instructions, you can ask for them. If they do provide them, you can ask for clarification on anything if you’re unsure.
Your dentist and surgeon are there to help you. Take advantage of their help! You’re not being a bother by asking questions about your oral health.
Do Some Preliminary Research
This isn’t the right choice for everyone, but for some people, it’s beneficial.
Do some preliminary research before the day of your surgery. Learn about why the surgery is happening and what you can expect from the recovery period. Some people find it comforting to get as much information as possible.
You can even read about other people’s dental surgery experiences if you think that would be helpful.
On the other hand, if you’re someone who experiences a lot of anxiety, you may want to skip this suggestion. Some people who experience health anxiety find it upsetting to do too much research beforehand and feel better just trusting their oral surgeons.
You know yourself best!
Prepare for Your Recovery Period
This is perhaps the most important thing you can do before your oral surgery. You want to prepare for your recovery period.
Now, depending on the type of oral surgery that you get, your recovery period will vary. Some people find that they don’t need to prepare much at all for something like a simple wisdom tooth removal (though there is some recommended preparation). On the other hand, if you happen to be getting dental implants, you may want to do more extensive prep work.
Make sure to pick up all of your medications beforehand if you can. Your oral surgeon may prescribe antibiotics and painkillers that you can grab from the pharmacy before you go in for surgery.
It’s also helpful to have some over-the-counter medications as well. Anti-inflammatory medications and over-the-counter sleep aids (if you need them) can both benefit you during your recovery.
Set aside everything you may want or need and put it near your bed or couch. If you have a more intensive oral surgery, you may not be in the mood to get up and move around too much. Create a comfy recovery “nest” for yourself with plenty of things within arm’s reach.
Go Grocery Shopping
You also want to do a quick grocery trip! Buy foods that will be easy for you to eat during your recovery.
Again, this will vary depending on the type of surgery you get. Some people return to eating normally a day or two after their surgeries, while others should try to prepare for at least a week (or more) of soft foods. Of course, you’ll likely be feeling well enough to shop again by the end of a week of recovery.
Choose foods that are soft and, ideally, nutritious. Consider meal-prepping to make your life easier. Blended fruit and veggie smoothies, soups, and overnight oats are great options for simple and nutritious meals and snacks when you’re not feeling well enough to eat.
Avoid hard and spicy foods during your initial recovery period. Also, if you decide to meal prep some healthy smoothies, don’t use a straw. You’ll risk developing “dry socket.”
Get Plenty of Sleep the Night Before
You might be feeling anxious before your oral surgery, but don’t let that stop you from getting a good night’s sleep! You want your body to be as prepared as possible for the surgery. Getting enough sleep may also help you feel less anxious.
It’s easier said than done, but try to develop a relaxing nighttime routine a few weeks before the date of your oral surgery if you don’t have one already. This will make it easier for you to fall asleep on time.
Make Arrangements for the Trip Home
In some cases, patients only use nitrous oxide during their dental surgeries. For more intense oral surgeries, however, patients need anesthesia.
If you go under anesthesia during your surgery, you’ll need someone to drive you home. If you have a friend or family member who can drive you, bring them with you to your appointment! If not, make other arrangements because it will not be safe for you to drive yourself home.
Arrive On-Time
On the day of your dental surgery, make sure you arrive on time.
Arriving too early could make you feel anxious and you may be waiting a while. Arriving too late could make you late for your appointment and it could add extra stress because you’ll be rushing.
Arrive with enough time to fill out any important paperwork and gather your thoughts for a few minutes.
Are You Ready for Your Oral Surgery?
Your oral surgery is coming up! Are you ready?
Don’t worry. Your oral surgeon is ready to provide you with a safe and efficient surgery. You’ll have your new smile in no time!
If you’re in need of oral surgery in Los Angeles, our experienced team is here for you. Book your exam today.
