Surgical Instructions
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Proper preparation before surgery is essential for a safe and smooth procedure. At Honest Oral Surgeon, we provide detailed surgical instructions to help our patients understand preoperative and postoperative care, ensuring optimal recovery.
Below, you will find important guidelines for various oral surgery procedures, including before anesthesia care, dental implant surgery, wisdom tooth removal, impacted tooth exposure, and extractions.
Before Anesthesia – Preoperative Instructions
If you are scheduled for a procedure requiring IV sedation or general anesthesia, follow these critical guidelines to ensure your safety:
- Do not eat or drink anything (including water) for at least 8 hours before surgery.
- Take all prescribed medications with a small sip of water unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon.
- Wear loose-fitting, short-sleeved clothing for easy access to your arms for IV placement.
- Remove contact lenses, dentures, and jewelry before surgery.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the remainder of the day.
- Avoid smoking or alcohol consumption at least 24 hours before surgery.
If you have any changes in health, such as fever, cold, or illness, notify our office immediately.
Dental Implant Surgery – Pre & Postoperative Care
Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth, offering long-lasting stability and function.
Before Surgery:
- Follow pre-anesthesia guidelines if receiving IV sedation.
- Eat a nutritious meal the night before surgery to help with recovery.
- Ensure your treatment plan and medical history have been reviewed by our team.
After Surgery:
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling for the first 48 hours.
- Stick to a soft-food diet (soups, yogurt, smoothies) for the first few days.
- Avoid spitting, drinking through straws, or smoking, as this may disrupt healing.
Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
Wisdom Tooth Removal – Recovery & Healing
Wisdom teeth extraction is a common oral surgery that helps prevent crowding, infection, and pain.
Before Surgery:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
- Do not eat or drink for 8 hours before surgery if receiving IV sedation.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing and remove jewelry.
After Surgery:
- Bite down on gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding.
- Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws for the first 24 hours.
- Use cold compresses to minimize swelling.
- Stick to a soft diet (mashed potatoes, pudding, applesauce) for a few days.
Take prescribed pain medications and antibiotics as directed.
Tooth Extractions – Single & Multiple Teeth Removal
Before Surgery:
- Do not eat or drink for at least 8 hours before surgery if receiving sedation.
- Take prescribed medications with a small sip of water if advised by your doctor.
- Have a responsible adult drive you home after surgery.
After Surgery:
- Bite gently on gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding.
- Avoid spitting, smoking, and drinking through a straw to prevent dry socket.
- Apply cold compresses to minimize swelling.
- Follow a soft diet for the first few days.
- Take pain medications and antibiotics as prescribed.
For complex extractions, such as multiple teeth removal, recovery may take longer. Swelling and mild discomfort are normal for the first few days, and stitches may be placed to aid healing.
Exposure of an Impacted Tooth – Orthodontic Assistance
When a tooth fails to erupt naturally, surgical exposure may be necessary to assist orthodontic treatment.
Before Surgery:
- Follow anesthesia guidelines if sedation is required.
- Bring your orthodontic referral if applicable.
After Surgery:
- Mild bleeding and swelling are expected for the first 24–48 hours.
- Follow a soft-food diet to avoid irritation.
- If an orthodontic bracket and chain were attached, avoid disturbing the area.
General Post-Surgery Guidelines
Regardless of the procedure, follow these general postoperative care tips:
- Rest for the first 24 hours and avoid strenuous activity.
- Keep your head elevated while sleeping to reduce swelling.
- Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid hot beverages and carbonated drinks.
- Do not touch or disturb the surgical site to prevent infection.
- Maintain oral hygiene, but avoid brushing near the surgical site for 24 hours.
If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, contact our office immediately.
Schedule Your Surgery or Consultation
At Honest Oral Surgeon, we provide comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care to ensure a smooth surgical experience. If you have any questions about your upcoming procedure, contact us for assistance.