Are you planning to get your wisdom teeth removed this year with the help of a cosmetic dentist? You’re in good company. Research shows that about five million Americans undergo this type of oral surgery each year.
What you can do to prepare for oral surgery? Let’s examine the preparations needed to ensure a smooth post-surgery experience.
Arrange for Transportation and Care
Prepare to have a family member or friend take you to your oral surgery appointment.
This is important because you won’t be able to drive home. Local anesthesia might weaken your reflexes, making you less stable behind the wheel. In addition, if your doctor gives you general anesthesia, it is recommended you not drive for a day to two days following your operation.
Can’t find a loved one to take you to and from your appointment? Schedule an Uber or taxi ride instead. However, don’t order these types of services until the staff at the cosmetic dentistry office where you’re undergoing surgery have told you it’s safe to head home.
If you’re undergoing a complicated surgery and live by yourself, arrange for a loved one to care for you overnight. In addition, if you have young children, you may want to have a family member care for them overnight while you’re recovering from surgery.
Know Your Post-Surgery Eating Rules
If you plan to receive a general or intravenous anesthetic during your oral surgery, avoid eating or drinking anything during the 12 hours leading up to your appointment.
If you’ll be receiving local anesthesia, you may eat a light snack a couple of hours before your appointment. Don’t forget to floss and brush thoroughly before your oral surgery.
Also, keep in mind you should avoid smoking during the 12 hours leading up to your surgery.
Know Your Post-Surgery Eating Rules
Plan to eat soft foods following your oral surgery, as they won’t require much chewing, so they will be easier and more comfortable to eat.
Protein drinks, like Ensure, SlimFast, and Boost, are great nutrition sources for those recovering from oral surgery. Oatmeal is another excellent option.
Avoid acidic or spicy foods, which might irritate your gums.
Also, don’t drink beverages through a straw after you’ve had a tooth extracted. This may lead to an uncomfortable condition called dry socket, which your dentist will have to treat.
Finally, avoid smoking for at least 24 hours after your oral surgery.
Prepare for Oral Surgery with Confidence
Before undergoing oral surgery, you’ll need to arrange transportation to and from your appointment. In addition, you might want to ask a loved one to care for you overnight if you’ll be undergoing complex surgery.
You should also plan to avoid eating a heavy meal before your surgery. After your surgery, stick to soft foods and drinks, and don’t suck beverages through a straw.
Follow these tips to ensure a speedy, comfortable, complication-free recovery following oral surgery.
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