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The idea of getting oral surgery can feel intimidating, but knowing how to prepare can help things go a little more smoothly. At Dental Specialty Associates, it’s our mission to help you feel prepared and confident for every dental treatment, especially if you need oral surgery in Phoenix or Gilbert.
This post explains how to prepare for oral and maxillofacial surgery.
1. Talk to Your Dental Surgeon
The most important first step in preparing for oral and maxillofacial surgery is to talk to your surgical team. We’ll review every detail of your treatment and recovery process and address any concerns you may have. To ensure the best possible outcome, it’s also important that you give us some information as well.
At your consultation for oral surgery in Phoenix or Gilbert, be sure to bring any documentation or notes you may need to give us complete and accurate information about:
- Your medical history
- Your complete medication list
- Whether you’ve ever taken osteoporosis medication in the past
- Allergies, especially to medications
- Artificial heart valves or joint replacements
- Phobias or anxiety related to your treatment
If anything changes between your consultation and surgery day, be sure to let us know.
2. Set Up a Support System Several Days Before Your Surgery
In many cases, oral and maxillofacial surgery involves sedation or general anesthesia. These medications will keep you completely comfortable throughout the procedure. They also last several hours and may leave you groggy after your appointment. Depending on the extent of your surgery and the type of sedation you need, you may also need help with tasks like picking up medications or preparing food for the first day or two.
Setting up a support system should include:
- Coordinating a driver to drive you to and from the surgery
- Picking up medications like pain control or antibiotics ahead of time if possible
- Stocking up your fridge with soft foods to eat during the first phases of your healing
- Communicating with the people in your household, especially if you’ll need support for childcare or other responsibilities
- Putting ice packs in the freezer
3. Stock Your Fridge
Stocking up on the right kinds of foods is a critical part of getting yourself set up for a smooth recovery. Your dental surgeon will provide detailed information about what foods to eat (and avoid) and how long it might take before you can return to a normal diet.
For example, oral surgery like a gum graft may need to be treated very gently for a longer time than a tooth extraction. In either case, it’s not a bad idea to have soft food on hand.
To prepare for your oral surgery, stock your fridge with foods like:
- Pudding
- Jell-O
- Broth or pureed soups
- Applesauce
- Greek yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Protein shakes or meal replacement drinks
- Fruit without small seeds (such as bananas, not berries)
- Smoothie ingredients including leafy greens (again, no berries!)
4. Set Up Your Recovery Spot
Depending on the type of surgery you’re getting, your surgeon may recommend avoiding certain sleeping positions so you don’t put too much pressure on the surgery site. You may also be uncomfortable for the first day or two after more advanced procedures.
It may be a good idea to set up a comfortable place to recover ahead of time with touches like:
- Extra pillows so you can lie down with your head elevated
- Pillows or rolled blankets to keep yourself from rolling onto your side during sleep
- A favorite recliner with blankets and pillows within reach
- Tidy, clutter-free night stand or side table where you can keep water, snacks, and medicine easily accessible
- Some light entertainment like a favorite movie or sudoku puzzles
5. Avoid Complications the Day of Your Surgery
Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon has many years of experience providing safe treatments. To minimize complications (and make you as comfortable as possible), prepare for your oral surgery by:
- Avoiding alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours before your surgery
- Removing nail polish and acrylic nails, which can interfere with oxygen monitoring equipment
- Removing contact lenses, jewelry, watches, and makeup (especially lipstick)
- Wearing comfortable, loose clothing including a short-sleeved shirt for blood pressure monitoring
- Wearing supportive, flat shoes to reduce the chance of stumbles after coming out of sedation
- Closely following any instructions for fasting or other preparations from your dental surgeon
Before leaving for your appointment, be sure to floss and brush your teeth thoroughly. This can help to prevent infection, but it’s also important because you may not be able to brush or floss for several days after your surgery.
It’s also a good idea to use the bathroom about 30 minutes before your surgery because you may not be able to go again until after it’s complete.
We’re Here to Help You Prepare for Oral Surgery and Enjoy a Smooth Recovery!
Our team at Dental Specialty Associates of Arizona is proud to provide comprehensive options to support every aspect of your oral health, from routine cleanings to advanced oral surgery in Phoenix and Gilbert. Helping you prepare for your oral surgery is a great first step in ensuring the best possible outcome.
If you have any questions or concerns about how to prepare for a smooth recovery, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re always happy to answer any questions and address any concerns so you can feel completely comfortable getting the care you need. Get in touch to schedule your consultation for oral surgery in Arizona today!
