Every year, 5 million people in the United States have wisdom teeth removed, making it one of the most common types of oral surgery, above tooth extractions, dental implants, and bone grafting. Regardless of your reason for needing oral surgery, it can be nerve-wracking to think about. Not knowing what to expect or how to prepare for oral surgery can lead people to delay care, which can lead to worsening oral health, developing a dental abscess, or living in pain for longer than they need to.
Read on to learn how to prepare for oral surgery, including what to expect at your pre-operative appointment, how to prepare for recovery, and what surgery day will be like when you get oral surgery with the best dentist in Leander.
Preparing for Your Oral Surgery Pre-Op Appointment
Just like any surgery, a pre-operative appointment is needed to go over the surgery plan, assess your risk factors for complications, and give you special instructions that will make surgery day go smoothly. You can prepare for this visit by:
- Bringing a list of all the medications you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins
- A list of medication allergies if you have any
- A report from your last physical exam with a primary care doctor
- Your insurance information and co-payment if applicable
During your oral surgery pre-op appointment, you’ll get to discuss what type of anesthesia will be used during your surgery, what risks come with your procedure, and how long your expected recovery will be. Your dentist will also conduct a thorough dental exam and may take dental X-rays to get an accurate picture of your current oral health, as well as map out a surgical plan. For some dental surgeries, a detailed cone-beam CT is needed to get a precise 3D image of your teeth, gums, jaw, and facial structures.
Before the appointment ends, the best oral surgeon in Leander will explain the oral surgery in detail and give you special pre-op instructions to follow in the days leading up to the procedure.
Preparing for Oral Surgery Day
If you are having dental sedation or general anesthesia during your oral surgery, you will need to follow a few steps to prepare, including:
- Stop eating and drinking several hours before your surgery
- Adjust your medications, if you are taking certain medications, like blood thinners
- Complete a course of antibiotics, in some cases
- Avoid smoking or alcohol for as long as possible before surgery, as these habits can raise your risk of complications and slow your ability to heal
After oral surgery, your body and mind will be clouded, which is why planning to have help ahead of time is important. Dental sedation or anesthesia will make it unsafe to drive, so arrange for a trusted person to take you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours.
Before surgery day, set up your recovery space at home with:
- Comfortable pillows
- A clear path to the bathroom
- Items you may need within reach, like the television remote, books, and cell phone charger
You should also stock your kitchen with soft foods like soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes, and have ice packs and prescribed pain medication ready so you are not searching for them while uncomfortable.
Oral Surgery Day: What to Expect From Start to Finish
On the morning of surgery, choose loose, soft clothes that are comfortable, and skip jewelry and makeup. If you wear contacts, leave them out and use glasses instead. Before you head in, brush your teeth and rinse your mouth according to the directions from your oral surgeon.
When you arrive for oral surgery, you’ll check in with a receptionist, and then your care team will review your medical history, confirm medications, and ask if you have any last questions, so nothing feels rushed or unclear. As you get ready, they will explain how anesthesia will work and help you settle into the chair. Local anesthesia or sedation is used to keep you comfortable, and most people remember little or nothing once the procedure begins.
After surgery, you will rest in a recovery area where staff keep an eye on your breathing, blood pressure, and pain level. When you are steady and alert enough, they will go over after-care instructions and make sure you are healthy enough to go home with your trusted friend or relative safely.
Finding the Best Oral Surgeon in Leander for Comfortable, Compassionate Care
Oral surgery feels a lot less overwhelming when you know what’s coming and you’ve set yourself up for a smooth recovery afterward. At Green Dentistry of Leander, we’re committed to a patient-first approach that ensures you feel 100% comfortable and relaxed from your pre-op appointment through your recovery.
Led by Dr. Kevin Min, our team will help you plan the practical details, like medications, eating and drinking rules, and what you’ll need at home, so you’re not left wondering what to expect or what to do.
Ready to get safe and comfortable oral surgery with the best oral surgeon in Leander?
