If you have severe tooth pain or need to have a tooth extracted, often oral surgery is the best way to permanently remedy the problem. The idea of any kind of surgery can cause fear in many people, but oral surgery is actually very safe. If your dentist advises you that oral surgery is needed, follow these guidelines about preparing for it.
The first step is finding a qualified oral surgeon to perform your procedure. Find a professional who is experienced and reputable. Your general dentist may offer recommendations, and asking around and doing your own research is always advisable. While oral surgery usually poses little risk to patients, seeking treatment from a qualified professional is important in any surgical situation.
When you see your oral surgeon and learn about your procedure, you will be provided with instructions to follow in preparing for surgery. You will also have time to arrange time off work if needed, as well as a ride to and from the surgery. Some of the instructions involve what you can or can’t do during the final day or two before the operation. Following the directions is important to help prevent complications either during surgery or afterwards.
You will receive some type of sedation for your oral surgery to avoid discomfort and help relax you during treatment. Your dentist will likely instruct you to restrict eating or drinking after midnight on the night before your surgery, because your stomach should be empty when receiving sedation medications. This increases the safety of surgery and will help you avoid prolonged nausea afterwards. If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting, it can impair your ability to take and keep down pain medications during recovery.
Oral surgery shouldn’t be something that is feared or neglected. If your dentist determines that you need surgery to improve your oral health, follow the instructions on how best to prepare yourself and then follow through on it.
Dr. Salimy offer oral surgery at his Newport Beach CA dental office
