PRE-OP
CARE

Below are some useful tips to get you ready for your visit.

Steps to prepare for oral surgery

The day of your wisdom tooth extraction or dental implants is coming up soon. Are you ready?

  • Schedule time off from work or school, to correspond with when you'll be recovering. Time varies from one patient to the next.
  • Prepare a comfortable area in your home to rest and enjoy a relaxing form of entertainment, such as watching TV. The effects of the anesthesia can take up to 24 hours to wear off completely.
  • Make sure you have some cold packs at home, and your supply of over the counter pain medication. Apply ice packs to your face for 15 minutes on and then 15 minutes off to reduce swelling.
  • Don’t eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight of the evening before your surgery.
  • Remember to dress comfortably. You’ll feel better overall and will be ready to rest after your surgery.
  • Arrive 20 minutes early to give yourself time to complete any last-minute paperwork, and to relax for a few moments prior to the surgery.
  • A person 18 years or older must accompany you on the day of the surgery.  The accompanying person must be PRESENT in the waiting area during the surgery they may not leave the facility.  Transportation must be available and onsite during your procedure.
  • Stick to a liquid and/or soft foods for the first day or two. Examples include soups, yogurts, fruit milkshakes, smoothies and mashed potatoes. 

BEFORE INTRAVENOUS ANESTHESIA SEDATION

  • You may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment.
  • No smoking at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking as soon as possible prior to the day of surgery. The negative effects of tobacco last up to two weeks after smoking cessation.
  • A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.
  • The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following the anesthesia experience.
  • Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and low-heeled shoes.
  • Contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures must be removed at the time of surgery.
  • Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.
  • If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or bowel upset, please notify the office.
  • If you take routine oral medications, please check with your doctor prior to your surgical date for instructions.