You might be nervous if you are getting oral surgery, whether it be emergency tooth removal in Albuquerque or full teeth replacement services in Albuquerque.
It might help to do a little research and prepare before you see the best oral surgeon in Albuquerque to do the work. You’ll feel better if you are prepared. The patients that prepare themselves and their homes are more likely to have a quick and smooth recovery as opposed to those who don’t. Here’s what you need to know about preparing for oral surgery.
The Consult
Unless you’re having emergency surgery like emergency tooth removal in Albuquerque, the first step toward full teeth replacement services in Albuquerque oral surgery is a consultation with the best oral surgeon in Albuequerque. This is where you will learn what to expect. They will get a medical history from you and let you know if there are any medications you need to stop before your surgery. This is the time to ask questions and you may want to have some prepared so you don’t forget.
If you are a smoker, you should stop. Smoking gets in the way of healing and smoking can cause dry socket. That is when the wound is exposed because the blood clot that forms in the wound becomes dislodged. It is extremely painful and requires medical attention right away.
Getting a Ride From the Surgery
Most of the time an oral surgery is outpatient so you’ll be leaving after surgery. You’ll want to arrange for someone to pick you up afterward because you can’t drive after getting anesthesia.
It might be a good idea to have someone stay with you for the night after surgery. They can make sure you are okay, call the doctor if you aren’t, and care for children and pets in your home so you can rest.
The oral surgeon will prescribe antibiotics and pain meds for you to take after surgery. You want to have someone pick them up before you get home so you have them when needed.
Food Rules for Before and After Surgery
You may be asked to fast the night before your surgery if general anesthesia is to be used. If you are having local anesthesia you may only need to fast for a few hours. You’ll want to make sure you have clean teeth before surgery. This can keep bacteria away from your wounds.
After surgery, the oral surgeon will put you on a soft diet. You won’t have anything hard to chew. You might try protein shakes and yogurt. Don’t use a straw with the shakes, as that can lead to a dry socket. Don’t drink alcoholic beverages for at least one day. Also, don’t eat anything until the anesthesia wears off, as you could hurt your cheek and tongue while you can’t feel them.
What Not to Wear
Don’t wear contact lenses, makeup, or jewelry to your surgery. We comfortable, loose, old clothes. You might want to bring lip balm after the operation to soothe your lips.
Medications
You might be asked a couple of weeks before surgery to stop any blood-thinning medications. These meds can make healing take longer. Some doctors will start patients on antibiotics and pain medication before the surgery.
As mentioned previously, antibiotics and painkillers should be picked up before the surgery so they will be ready for you. There are many types of antibiotics, these can include metronidazole, ticarcillin, clindamycin, erythromycin, and penicillin VK. Painkillers can include prescription-strength acetaminophen.
Getting Your House Ready
You’ll want to prepare your home for when you return from surgery. Change your be linens to some that you don’t mind throwing away as you will likely stain them. Keep your head propped with pillows.
Consider keeping reading material by the bed. Keep a cell phone nearby if you need to call for help. Keep soft foods on hand such as yogurt and smoothie ingredients. You’ll want to have ice packs too.
Recovery Tips
Keep your head elevated when you sleep for several days. You’ll want to rest and avoid many activities following your oral surgery. Swelling and discomfort are to be expected, but a frozen compress or bag of frozen peas can help. You can rinse your mouth with salt water after the first day, and brush your teeth as normal.
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