Whether you require a dental implant or a simple extraction, the very idea of oral surgery can make you anxious. But knowing what to expect and how to prepare for oral surgery can often help manage your fear and recover faster.
So, here are a few simple tips that can help you be better prepared for your upcoming oral surgery.
Before the surgery, your San Antonio dentist will try to explain at length what the procedure entails, how it will feel, and what you can expect during the recovery period.
Take your time and try to think about any questions you may have regarding the surgery or the post-op care.
Tell your dentist if you have any medical condition that they should be aware of or if you are taking any medication that could interfere with the surgery.
Discuss the sedation option and let your dentist know if you have any anxiety about the procedure or the anesthesia. This way, you can find the option that you feel most comfortable with.
Make sure to discuss your insurance too and see how much your policy will cover. This way, you won't be surprised by any unexpected extra expenses.
Depending on the type of sedation used, you may need to have a friend or family member come with you and take you home after the surgery.
If no one can accompany you and you need to take a taxi or Uber, make sure that your dentist tells you it's safe to leave before you call a car.
Ask your dentist about the type and level of post-op care you will need. More often than not, a bit of rest is enough to help your body recover after oral surgery. But, if you've undergone general anesthesia, you may need someone to stay with you overnight and make sure no complications or unwanted side effects arise.
You will be given specific instructions regarding your diet based on the type of sedation used. If the dentist will only use a local anesthetic, then you will be advised to only have a light meal about two hours before the surgery. This way you will avoid feeling nauseous because of the anesthetic.
But, if you need something more intense, like IV sedation or general anesthesia, then you may be asked to abstain from eating or drinking eight to 12 hours before the procedure.
Are you nervous about your upcoming oral surgery and would like to learn more about what you can expect and how to prepare? The friendly team at Smiles of Bulverde can answer all your questions and help you manage your fear.
Send us a message online or call us at (210) 907-8666 for a short chat.
Yes. Brushing and flossing thoroughly immediately before your surgery reduces the amount of bacteria in your mouth, which significantly lowers the risk of post-operative infection.
Even "light" sedation can impair your reflexes, judgment, and motor skills for several hours. For your safety and the safety of others on San Antonio roads, we require a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you until the effects have fully worn off. You should not drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours after sedation.
A successful recovery starts before you leave for the office. We recommend:
In most cases, yes, but you must discuss this with our clinical team during your consultation. Some medications, like blood thinners or certain supplements, may need to be paused. If you are fasting for sedation but need to take a pill, do so with only a tiny sip of water.
Choose loose, comfortable clothing. We recommend a short sleeved shirt or sleeves that can be easily rolled up past the elbow, especially if you are receiving IV sedation. Avoid wearing:
It depends on your sedation level. If you are having local anesthesia (numbing shots only), you should have a light meal a few hours before to stabilize your blood sugar. However, if you are receiving IV sedation or general anesthesia, you must not eat or drink anything (including water) for 8 to 12 hours prior. This is a critical safety measure to prevent nausea and serious lung complications during the procedure.
