If you find yourself in need of oral surgery, whether it is to realign your jaw or repair facial (or related) structures for the sake of oral function, it is best to go in prepared. And part of thorough preparation is knowing what you can or cannot do, what to wear, and what other arrangements you may need to make in anticipation of the post-op phase.
Whether it is with your oral surgeon or family members who will be with you through this stage, here are six main things to take note of when you are preparing for the oral surgery coming up.
Ask all the questions you need to
After ascertaining that an oral surgery is needed, it is time to get all your doubts out of the way to prevent anxiety or unnecessary stress. The best person to approach during this time would be the oral surgeon presiding over the operation.
Ask any questions or raise up your doubts with them prior to the surgery, so you can assuage your fears and be mentally prepared for the surgery that is coming up.
Get transport ready for after the operation
If your oral surgery involves the use of anaesthesia, you will require post-op care from either family members or friends. This includes arranging for transport to take you home after the oral surgery, since you wll be unable to get back home on your own.
Make prior arrangements way in advance and find someone who can make the time to be there for you after the surgery.
Find out if you need to fast
As with all other major ops and surgeries or procedures, patients often have to fast at least 8 to 12 hours prior to the surgery. It is no different for an oral surgery, so check in with your oral surgeon if you need to fast prior to your operation.
Prepare an appropriate, convenient outfit
Wearing short-sleeved shirts will help if the surgery involves an IV drip. Avoid wearing jewelry and makeup, and if you have long hair, tie it up prior to the surgery to avoid inconveniencing your surgeon mid-op.
Anticipate the post-op diet, and prepare for it
You may only be allowed to eat certain types of food after your oral surgery, so plan for it in advance. Soft food and non-spicy food are optimal, so prepare a meal plan with those in mind.
Arrive early – so you can relax
Lastly, arrive early so you can settle in and handle any required paperwork before it is time for the surgery. This will give you time to calm your nerves if you are jittery about operations.
Now that all these six things have been adequately addressed, it is time to put the advice to work and turn it into action. And remember: there is nothing that you cannot ask your oral surgeon.
The more you know, the better prepared you will be – and the easier it will be to calm those nerves in the hours leading up to the surgery. It is far better to stay safe than to go in blind, so do what you must and best of luck!
via Omni Dental Center https://www.omnidental.com.sg/articles/prepare-for-oral-surgery/