How To Prepare For A Dental Surgery
How To Prepare For A Dental Surgery
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Do You Need Oral Surgery?
Advances in dental treatments and
procedures have blurred the lines between dental specialties. All dentists are
initially trained to practice as general dentists. Many dentists will choose to
pursue specialties that require additional training and education.
Orthodontists and oral surgeons will spend an additional two years in training.
If you find a Provo Dentist cannot complete
certain complex procedures, an oral surgeon will often be called to assist.
Such things as extreme overbite, tumors, and damage from accidents are handled
by oral surgeons.
Preparing for Oral Surgery
In most cases, it will be your normal
dentist referring you to an oral surgeon. You should be counseled on exactly
why surgery is necessary and what outcome is expected. Discuss any concerns you
have and make sure all your questions are answered.
The surgeon will also review the expected
procedure with you. Determine what prescriptions will be necessary and have
them filled before the surgery. Ask about any special post surgery issues the
surgeon might anticipate. The surgeon can also advise on what forms of sedation
are available and advisable in your particular situation. You will want to get
advice on your post surgery diet, so that you can prepare accordingly.
The Night Before Surgery
The surgeon's office will give you specific
instructions to follow the day before surgery. Read them carefully and follow
them precisely. In most cases, you can anticipate having a total fast from
midnight to the time of the surgery. Depending on the type of anesthesia that
will be used, you will be told to refrain from alcohol and smoking for at least
twelve hours before surgery. Make sure to brush and floss before going to your
appointment.
Prepare your personal recovery area. You
will need at least two days to recover and you should prepare your bed or
resting area as you desire. Keep plenty of tissues handy.
The Day of Surgery
Arrange transportation for after the
treatment, you will be unable to drive. Dress comfortably in loose fitting
clothes. There is always the possibility of stains occurring during surgery, so
dress accordingly. Normally, you will be told not to wear jewelry, contact lenses
or makeup to the procedure. You may want to bring along a lip moisturizer for
use after the surgery.
It is important to remain calm and relaxed
before the surgery. Let your surgeon know if you have excess anxiety over the
procedure.
Post Surgery
Depending on your procedure, you will be on
a limited diet for 2 to 7 days. The surgeon will give you specific guidance and
it is important to follow the instructions. One goal will be to prevent a
condition called dry socket. This can be painful and can be avoided by
following the surgeon's guidance.
It can take from 1 to 2 weeks to heal from
treatment for procedures such as wisdom tooth extractions, more for more
complex procedures.
Proper planning will minimize the
discomfort caused by your oral surgery.
