.png)
The Day Before Surgery
Pick up any prescribed medications from the pharmacy if needed
Confirm your appointment time and arrange a ride home (if sedation is used) with a responsible escort 18 years of age or older
Follow any specific instructions provided during your consultation
The Night Before Surgery
Do not eat or drink eight hours prior to your scheduled surgery if receiving IV sedation or general anesthesia
Brush your teeth, but do not swallow water
Remove nail polish on both index fingers, lipstick, and facial makeup
On the Day of Surgery
Confirm your appointment time and arrange a ride home (if sedation is used) with a responsible escort 18 years of age or older
Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves
Leave contact lenses, jewelry, and valuables at home
Bring a valid ID and insurance card
Take only the medications approved by your surgeon (with a small sip of water as per your surgeon)
Bring your prescribed medications with you, if directed
Arrive on time and bring your driver (required if having sedation or anesthesia)
Reschedule If You Have:
Fever, cold, cough, sore throat, or flu symptoms
Recent COVID exposure or positive test
1. Bite on Gauze
Keep firm pressure on a wet gauze pad for 1 hour after the procedure to control bleeding. Repeat as needed.
2. Avoid Rinsing or Spitting
For the first 24 hours, do not rinse your mouth. Also, NO spitting, sucking, or using a straw for the first 3 weeks. These actions, along with smoking or eating foods that are not soft, can dislodge the blood clot forming in the extraction site. This may lead to a painful dry socket or even a serious infection, which might require incision and drainage and can delay proper healing.
3. Pain Management
Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed. Use ice packs to help reduce swelling – but only during the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. Expect the most swelling and discomfort within the first 72 hours. By day 4, you should begin to feel some relief. If not, contact our office immediately.
4. Eat Soft Foods
Stick to soft, cool foods to promote healing and avoid disturbing the surgical area(s). Good options include: Yogurt, Applesauce, Mashed potatoes, and Smoothies (NO Straws!).
5. Rest & Recover
Limit physical activity and avoid heavy lifting greater than 10lbs. for at least 7 days.
6. Oral Hygiene
Gently brush your teeth but avoid the surgical sites. After 24 hours, you may begin gentle rinsing with warm salt water to keep the area clean especially after every meal.
7. Women
For those who are taking oral contraceptives, you should have a backup method of birth control due to the fact that antibiotics may cancel the effects of the medicine.