At Henderson Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we want to ensure that all our patients have a smooth, safe, and comfortable dental experience. That is why we strongly recommend that you follow all pre-operative instructions to avoid any complication during surgery.
Here is a list of guidelines that you need to follow before your oral surgery takes places:
- If you have any medical condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, inform us before the procedure so that we can determine whether it is safe or not for you to undergo surgery. You should also notify us about any sudden changes to your health before your oral surgery.
- You should provide us a list of medication you take like insulins or blood thinners. These medications may interfere with the surgery or the healing process so you may require your doctor to adjust dosage prior to the surgery.
- If your oral surgery is performed only under the effects of local anesthesia, you can have your breakfast and lunch as usual. However, if the surgery involves IV sedation, you should not eat or drink anything for six hours before the operation. If you take some prescription medication regularly, you may take them with small sips of water.
- Brush your teeth before coming in for surgery so that your mouth is cleaned of bacteria and is not at a high risk of infection. It is also recommended that you use the bathroom about half an hour before surgery.
- If you have been prescribed Warfarin, you need to stop taking it 3 to 5 days before surgery. Talk to your doctor and Dr. Huang about the use and discontinuation of this drug.
- Stop taking aspirin or vitamin E at least 7 days before oral surgery as it can lead to increased bleeding. If it is not possible to do so, inform us immediately before surgery.
- If we prescribe you any medication to be taken before the surgery, follow our instructions as directed and bring the prescriptions to your appointment.
- Do not ignore symptoms of a head or chest cold. If you suspect you are unwell, inform us before your surgery so that we can move the appointment to another day.
- The use of alcohol and recreational drugs can interact badly with the anesthesia. We strongly advise you discontinue their use at least 72 hours before surgery.
- Do not smoke at least 24 hours before surgery as it can interfere with the healing process.
- Some antibiotics given for the surgery may interfere with oral contraceptives. Women are advised to check with their pharmacists or physicians.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothes during the appointment. Avoid wearing lipstick, contact lenses, or facial jewelry. Also remove nail polish and use flat-soled shoes that can help you stand and walk easily after the surgery.
- Dentures must be removed at the time of surgery.
- You may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for 8 hours before the appointment. For morning surgery, no food or liquids after midnight the night before surgery.
- A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.
- Plan to rest for the remainder of the surgery day. The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following the anesthesia experience.
Following these pre-operative instructions can help you prepare effectively for your oral surgery. If you have further concerns about the procedure, do not hesitate to call our Green Valley and St Rose offices at (702) 270-2999 before your surgery.
