Pre-Op Instructions
Gilbert, AZ
 Oral surgery is the field of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide array of different diseases, defects, and other issues that affect the mouth and surrounding areas. At San Tan Oral Surgery, we are experts in performing these procedures, helping to restore your oral health, as well as the functions and the aesthetics of your mouth. Before we perform your surgery, we provide you with specific instructions to follow. Here is some of what you can expect.
Getting Your Home Ready
The procedures for oral surgery vary, as do the recovery times. No matter what your surgical procedure, it is important to have your home ready so that after your appointment you will not have much to do except focus on recovering. Stock up your fridge and pantry with soft foods that are easy to chew. Having liquid foods on hand can also be helpful in the early days of recovery.
You should also prepare a place to rest, whether it is the sofa, a recliner, or your bed. Have plenty of pillows to keep your head elevated. You may also want to have things to do within reach. This may include your laptop, games, books, the television remote, or something else you enjoy doing that does not take much effort.
Food and Drink Before Surgery
You will need to abstain from eating or drinking anything, water included, for at least six to eight hours before your appointment. This will help to limit nausea during your procedure while under sedation. Avoid drinking any alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours before your procedure.
Taking Medication
If you take any medications, you can, and should, take them as normal the morning of your surgery, unless you are otherwise directed. If you are taking medication, you can drink a small amount of water.
What to Wear
Be sure to dress comfortably for your surgery. A loose-fitting tee shirt, pants, and sneakers are advisable. Do not wear any cologne or perfume, make-up, or nail polish. You will be instructed to remove all jewelry, so you may want to leave these items at home. If you normally wear contacts, these should not be worn when you come for your procedure. Instead, wear your glasses.
Oral Care
Before you leave home, brush and floss your teeth thoroughly, and rinse your mouth with mouthwash. This will help to remove buildup and limit the bacteria in your mouth, which aids in reducing your risk of infection or other complications during surgery. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, it is important to abstain from using these products for at least 24 hours before surgery. You will also need to abstain from smoking during your recovery. We highly recommend quitting altogether, but if you cannot completely quit, you will need to at least follow guidelines surrounding smoking and oral surgery.
Transportation
If sedation stronger than nitrous oxide is going to be used for your surgery, you will need to have a responsible individual with you who can drive you home. The effects of oral and IV sedation, including general anesthesia, can linger for several hours. If oral sedation is being used, you will also need to have that person drive you in. Your driver will need to wait in the waiting room for the duration of your procedure, so we recommend that they bring something to keep themselves occupied while they wait.
If you have any questions regarding your pre-op instructions or your surgery, do not hesitate to call San Tan Oral Surgery today at (480) 604-2592.
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