Are you undergoing oral surgery soon? Chances are you may be feeling a bit stressed, and a little planning can make the experience easier.
At Richmond Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we give you pre-operative instructions in advance. And we do whatever we can to calm your nerves and ensure you have a positive experience. To that end, we’ve put together a list of steps you can take to prepare for your oral surgery procedure.
Go Grocery Shopping
After undergoing oral surgery, you’ll likely be on a liquid and soft-food diet for at least a few days. You won’t feel like stopping by the grocery store on the way home, so stock up on healthy food and drink options ahead of time.
Set Up a Recovery Spot
When you get back home, you’ll want to relax in a cozy spot. Pile extra pillows on the bed or couch before you leave for the oral surgeon’s office, and make sure the TV remote, a book, magazines or whatever entertainment you like is in easy reach.
Arrange for a Ride Home
If your oral surgery procedure involves any type of anesthesia, you’ll need a family member or friend to provide you with a ride home. Due to the potential for lingering drowsiness, driving isn’t safe when you have anesthesia in your system.
Keep Your Stomach Empty
Your oral surgeon will tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight or for at least the eight hours prior to your procedure. This is to prevent anesthesia complications. If you consume anything during that time, even coffee, you may have to reschedule your oral surgery.
Choose a Comfortable Outfit
The day of your procedure, dress for comfort. Choose loose-fitting, casual clothes, like sweatpants and a T-shirt, and bring a sweater or jacket just in case the oral surgeon’s office is a bit chilly. Leave the accessories at home, as you may need to remove them anyway.
Clean Your Mouth Carefully
Before you leave the house, give your mouth a thorough cleaning. Brush for a couple of extra minutes, then use dental floss or a water pick and rinse with mouthwash. By paying careful attention to your oral hygiene the morning of your procedure, you’ll reduce your risk of infection.
At Richmond Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, serving the greater east central Indiana area for more than a decade, patient safety and comfort are our primary concerns. Our professional team provides expert care with kindness and compassion, and we perform a full range of oral surgery procedures.
For more information on our board-certified oral surgeons, or to schedule a professional oral surgery consultation, contact Richmond Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery today.