If you’re going to have oral surgery anytime sooner, you probably would have heard and read many things about what you shouldn’t do during the recovery or post-procedure. But have you ever thought of the things you shouldn’t do before?
Although often overlooked, preparing for your oral surgery the right way is just as important as taking care of the healing process after it. To help you with that, here is how you can prepare for your oral surgery to ensure you get a comfortable and hassle-free experience both before and after the procedure.
Read And Follow Your Pre-Op Instructions
Your oral surgeon will provide you with all the instructions and pre-care you need to follow before your surgery. Make sure to read them and ask any doubts if you have any. These instructions will usually give information about your anesthesia and how to prepare for it.
Sometimes it might also have special instructions relevant to the procedure you’re going to undertake. Following the pre-op instructions given by your surgeon is one of the main ways you need to prepare for your oral surgery.
Stock On Your Essential Medications
Post-surgery, you will be expected to be in a full recovery mood. Giving this rest is very important to get your oral health restored quicker. During this period, you won’t be able to leave your house, so make sure to stock up on any essential medications that you routinely take or need during emergencies. Your dentist or surgeon will usually ask about the types of medications you are on and guide you on those you can take and those that need to be avoided until some time to prevent interactions.
Arrange A Family Member Or Friend For A Ride
As oral surgeries are done under anesthesia (to keep the procedure painless), you will not be able to drive yourself back home after the surgery. So make sure to arrange for a family member or a friend to take you home, or try to arrange a cab.
Get Your Diet Sorted
Remember that post-surgery, you will be required to get into a strict diet, so try to pick up the right food or groceries to cook appropriate meals. In general, it’s also best to stick to healthy foods and beverages. Softer foods would also work best during the recovery; make sure to avoid acidic or spicy foods.
Wear The Right Clothing
Your clothing adds a lot to making your surgery a comfortable experience. Avoid wearing t-shirts with sleeves, as nurses need to access your arms to take your vital signs, give an IV, or monitor your blood pressure. Instead, wear something breathable, lightweight, and loose on the body.
Do Not Smoke
Your dentist will probably tell you this, but for any oral surgery, you must stop using tobacco products at least 12 hours before the procedure and at least 24 hours after.
Arrive Early
Make sure you are getting transport arranged to arrive at least 20-30 minutes early. This gives you enough time to fill out any last-minute paperwork, ask questions, and, most importantly, make yourself comfortable and adjusted.
Get A Good Night’s Sleep
It is always essential to get a good sleep before your surgery. It helps to relax your mind and body and, most importantly, keeps you refreshed and energetic for the procedure. Sometimes your doctor may also recommend you to sleep in specific positions to avoid putting pressure on your mouth if it is relevant to the particular type of oral surgery.
Besides these, always try to ask any outstanding questions you may have regarding the surgery as and when needed. You can always call your dental clinic and get your doubts cleared, or even directly contact your surgeon to fill you in.
