Five Ways to Prepare for Oral Surgery
Because oral surgery is serious, you need to plan and prepare properly to prevent any complications. Your dentist in South Bend will provide you with complete pre-op and post-op instructions, but it may also help to follow these smart surgical tips.
- Pick up Your Pills
You’ll want to head home to rest and recover after your oral surgery, so be sure to get any post-op medication prescribed by your dentist in South Bend before the day of treatment. If you’re concerned about the cost of prescriptions, ask your dentist in South Bend to prescribe more affordable dental care medications.
- Request a Ride
After having anesthesia, you’ll need to have someone available to take you home. Make plans to have a friend or family member take you and pick you up from your procedure.
- Follow Full Pre-Op Instructions
If your oral surgery requires general anesthesia, oral surgeons usually want you to avoid all food and water for at least eight hours prior to surgery. If you only need local anesthesia, it’s typically all right to have a light meal a few hours before the treatment. It’s also important not to smoke for at least 12 hours before the procedure, and at least 24 hours after the treatment. But remember to follow the specific instructions from your dentist in South Bend to avoid any surgical problems. If you have questions prior to treatment, call your affordable dental care clinic to get all the answers you need.
- Prepare Your Post-Op Diet
After oral surgery, oral surgeons usually want you to use your teeth as little as possible. Most oral surgeons advise these diet dos and don’ts:
- Only eat soft foods for the few days after surgery.
- Stay away from spicy and acidic foods.
- Drink plenty of plain water.
- Only choose healthy drinks like milk, tea, smoothies, and protein shakes.
- Avoid drinking through a straw, because this can damage the surgical site.
- Sleep Smarter
Your dentist in South Bend will recommend the best sleeping positions after surgery to avoid putting pressure on your mouth. The best sleeping position is usually on your back with your head slightly propped by a few pillows.
To learn about our family dentistry practice in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.
The Dental Center of Indiana offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in South Bend. With 6 affiliated practices throughout South Bend, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At The Dental Center of Indiana, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at The Dental Center of Indiana.
