Preparing for Oral Surgery

Oral surgery might sound intimidating, but in truth, it describes many common surgical dental procedures, from root canals to dental implants to removal of wisdom teeth.

Although each procedure is different and comes with its own set of guidelines about what to expect during your surgery, they all share the same goal: improving the health and function of your mouth. 

It’s only natural to feel nervous if you’re facing upcoming oral surgery. Millions of Americans undergo oral surgeries every year, but at the private practice of Robert F. Wilcox, DMD, in Butte, Montana, we understand that you don’t get oral surgery every day. 

To help put you at ease, Dr. Wilcox and the team gathered our top six tips on preparing for oral surgery. Take a look at what you need to know to be ready on your surgery date.

Get the details before your surgery date

To prepare yourself for oral surgery, discuss it in detail with Dr. Wilcox before your surgery date. Whether you’re getting a root canal or preparing for more extensive surgery, knowing what to expect before, during, and after your treatment helps calm your nerves. 

In addition to listening carefully, don’t be afraid to ask us any questions you may have. Not sure where to start? Here are some questions to consider to get you started. You may ask us:

• Why this oral surgery is required or recommended
• If there are any risks associated with this surgery
• Whether you need general or local anesthesia
• What happens, step-by-step, during the surgical visit 
• How long the surgical procedure takes
• What your recovery from this oral surgery will be like

If you’re experiencing anxiety about your upcoming procedure, let us know. As an expert in sedation dentistry, Dr. Wilcox may be able to prescribe anti-anxiety medications, like temazepam or diazepam, to keep you comfortable the day of your visit. 

Follow all preoperative instructions

We provide you with specific instructions before your surgery. Read them all and follow them carefully. This information helps you prepare for the type of anesthesia and gives you any special instructions relevant to your type of procedure. 

In most cases, if you are receiving general anesthesia, you may not be able to eat or drink for eight hours before your procedure. 

Arrange for a ride

Some types of anesthesia impair your ability to drive. If you’re getting general anesthesia, ask a friend or family member to drive you to and from the appointment. 

Prepare for your recovery in advance

Once your procedure is finished, you need time to rest and recover. To make the transition to recovery as smooth as possible, prepare for it before your surgery date. Pick up any post-procedure medications early, and stock up on healthy foods and beverages. 

Depending on your procedure, create a post-surgery menu of easy-to-prepare foods, like whole-grain oatmeal, mild vegetable soups, and mashed potatoes. We can let you know the specific foods and beverages you need to avoid. 

Dress casually and comfortably

To help you relax on the day of your surgery, dress comfortably and casually. If you’re having IV sedation, wear short sleeves to allow us easy access to your arms. 

Dr. Wilcox and our team review specific do’s and don’ts, but generally speaking, avoid wearing contact lenses, jewelry, makeup, and perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions. If you have long hair, pull it back to help keep it out of the way during surgery.  

Understand when to cancel

If you have a strong head cold or symptoms of the flu, COVID-19, or other upper respiratory infections, call our office to reschedule your oral surgery to prevent spreading germs. And not being able to breathe easily through your nose can make surgery and recovery difficult. 

If you need oral surgery, trust your dental health to Dr. Wilcox. Contact our friendly staff to schedule a consultation today.