How to Prepare Before an Oral Surgery Procedure

Understanding what is necessary to prepare for oral surgery is important for the success of the procedure. While many dental patients are concerned about the recovery process after surgery, they should also be concerned about getting ready for the procedure. When patients are fully prepared, they are more likely to experience positive outcomes.

Types of oral surgery

Oral surgery includes a wider range of procedures than many people realize. When people hear the term oral surgery, they often think of more complex procedures such as jaw surgery or dental implant placement. However, oral surgery includes more simple procedures as well, such as tooth extractions which are someting a general dentist can perform. But no matter how simple or how complex oral surgery is, preparation is key.

What to do before undergoing oral surgery

It is important for patients who are in need of oral surgery to follow any preparation instructions given to them by their general dentist. In addition, the list below includes three general pieces of advice that dental patients can follow in order to adequately prepare for an oral surgery procedure. 

Know what to expect

Knowing what to expect when it comes to undergoing any oral surgery procedure is the first step to preparing for a successful procedure. Dentists are skilled at providing patients with comprehensive information on what to expect. However, patients are also encouraged to ask any questions they have about their upcoming dental procedure. This includes understanding what will happen during the actual procedure, as well as the benefits and risks associated with the surgical procedure.

Be comfortable

Patients are encouraged to take certain steps that will make them comfortable while the surgical procedure is being performed. These include wearing comfortable clothes, wearing comfortable shoes, bringing a blanket or a pillow, and bringing headphones so they can listen to music or podcasts during the procedure. Patients who wear contact lenses should remove them and instead wear glasses, as many patients who undergo a surgical procedure will need to keep their eyes closed, which can make the lenses uncomfortable after some time.

Make aftercare plans

Preparing for recovery requires dental patients to make plans that support a successful aftercare period. Since patients will need to rest for a certain amount of time after undergoing a surgical procedure, having everything in place to support their aftercare needs is crucial. Preparation for aftercare may include stocking up on soft foods, placing ice packs in the freezer, getting any approved over-the-counter or prescription medications, and arranging to have someone drive them home after the procedure.

Is oral surgery in the near future?

Reading the list above allows future surgical patients to understand what they may need to do in order to prepare for their oral surgery. Those who understand the importance of preparation are more likely to experience positive outcomes that allow them to once again be in good oral health.

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