Oral surgery requires preparation to enable you to go through the procedure without complications and recover quickly. It’s usually performed on an outpatient basis and involves a local or general anesthetic. You should approach this type of surgery like any other surgery and follow the preparations and post-operative instructions that your oral surgeon gives you to minimize infection risk.
Here are some ways you can prepare for oral surgery.
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Discuss With Your Surgeon
Most people often clam up when they meet with an oral surgeon to discuss dental procedures. They listen attentively as they’re given the operation procedures, anesthesia, and recovery time but shun from asking questions because they think they’re silly or because they’re uncomfortable.
However, you shouldn’t go home with unanswered questions in your mind. If you’re suffering from a health condition or are undergoing other medical treatments, ensure you tell your oral surgeon about them. You should also inform him if you’re taking any drugs because the more he knows, the more he’ll help you avoid drug interactions and complications.
Furthermore, if you’re anxious about the procedure, or the type of anesthesia used, talk to your surgeon to help you find alternatives that’ll work well. You also want to confirm that your insurance takes care of the procedure to ensure you get your claim. The dental office can help you get a written description of the surgery to confirm the coverage with your insurance company.
Understand The Drinking, Eating, And Smoking Rules
If your surgery includes a general anesthetic or intravenous (IV), you’ll have to follow the pre-operative guidelines. Some of the things you’ll have to do include not eating or drinking anything, including water, for at least 12 hours before the operation.
However, if the surgery needs a local anesthetic, your surgeon may allow you to eat a light meal one or two hours before the operation. But you’ll need to floss and brush thoroughly before visiting the clinic. Additionally, you need to stay away from your pipe for at least 12 hours before the surgery and 24 hours after the surgery.
Arrange For Post-Operative Care And Transportation
Arranging for transport and post-operative care seems a no-brainer job. However, you shouldn’t underestimate the impact of your oral surgery. IT’s best to have a family member or friend to take you to the office or clinic and back home. If this isn’t possible, don’t fool yourself into driving because the local anesthesia may numb your reflexes and make you less steady on the road.
Instead, it would be best to take a taxi after your surgeon has told you that it’s safe to leave the office. If you’re living alone or are undergoing a more complex procedure, find someone to stay with overnight or one who can check on you regularly. If you have kids in the house, you may have to arrange with the childcare to prepare them food so that you’re not worried about cooking when you get home.
The Bottom Line
Almost every task in the world needs preparation to be accomplished effectively, and oral surgery isn’t an exception. Ensure that you make the necessary arrangements to speed up your recovery before the procedure and lessen your stress.
