Going into any type of surgery can be stressful, especially when there are many unknowns. But our staff at Ocoee Oral Surgery in Cleveland TN wants to ensure each of our patients knows what to expect when preparing for oral surgery and feels as at ease as possible during the time leading up to your wisdom teeth removal or other procedure. That’s why we compiled a list of 10 ways to help you prepare for your Chattanooga oral surgery appointment! We hope you’ll find them helpful.
1) Talk to your oral surgeon about pre-op instructions.
Your surgeon here at Ocoee Oral Surgery will do everything possible to ensure the surgery process goes smoothly for you. That will involve some instructions for you to follow before your procedure. Be sure to tell your oral surgeon about any medications you are taking and about any past surgery experiences you may have had to help inform their work.
2) Don’t eat or drink for 6 hours before surgery.
You’ll receive specific instructions before your surgery date, and each case can differ. That said, in general, it’s a good idea to fast for at least 6 hours before your oral surgery procedure. More specific instructions will depend on the factors surrounding your surgery and whether you’ll be using IV anesthetics or nitrous oxide (laughing gas); however, our staff will make sure you know what to do!
3) Wear comfortable clothes!
It’s surgery, right? So we want to make sure you’re comfortable. You can wear sweats or even pajamas to ensure you’re comfortable. You also might want to bring a sweatshirt or light jacket to ensure you don’t get cold.
4) Brush and floss before your oral surgery.
You’ll definitely want to brush and floss before your wisdom teeth removal or other oral surgery procedure. Keeping your mouth clean will help to reduce the risk of infection and other potential issues during your treatment. Also, if you are a smoker or use other tobacco products, we recommend you refrain from doing so for at least 12 hours before your surgery. This will help to ensure a quicker, more complete recovery.
5) Bring a friend or family member.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your oral surgery, you may require heavy sedation before the procedure. This will mean you shouldn’t drive for a while afterward, so you’ll need a little help from a friend or family member to get from point A to point B. It’s also a good idea to have someone stay with you for several hours after the surgery is completed. Just to be safe and make sure you don’t have complications or need anything.
6) Plan to rest post-oral surgery.
Your sedation will likely wear off 30 to 45 minutes after your surgery, and you’ll be able to go home to rest. The residual effects of sedation dentistry and general anesthesia can last for up to 24 hours, so you’ll need to plan to be able to relax and take it easy. The post-op R&R might be the best part of the surgery. Cue up your favorite Netflix shows, and snuggle in.
7) Stock your pantry and refrigerator.
You’ll receive in-depth instructions about what to do after your oral surgery, as well as what to eat or drink. Get plenty of fluids, but make sure not to drink with straws, as this can cause complications and damage to surgical sites. You’ll need to subsist on soft foods for a while as you heal. Think soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, oatmeal, and the like. Avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy foods for a few days or even a week after treatment. If you notice bleeding, swelling, or experience significant discomfort, please contact our office for assistance.
8) If you’re sick, reschedule!
We never want to put off anyone’s oral surgery, but that said, if you’re not feeling your best, it might be a good idea to reschedule. If you are sick or immuno-compromised, that could potentially increase your risk of infection. Going into the oral surgery in ship shape will mean a faster recovery!
9) Arrive at the office early.
We recommend arriving a little earlier than your appointment time. This will ensure you have time to ask any last-minute questions and will eliminate the stress that accompanies rushing around to get somewhere. You can take a few minutes to relax and breathe before your procedure.
10) Find your zen.
Our staff is here for you! We want you to feel prepared and at ease before your oral surgery, and we know that knowledge is power. The more you know, the less you have to worry. So just relax, and rest assured we know what we’re doing. You’re in great hands at Ocoee Oral Surgery!