Redondo & Manhattan Beach: 310-375-0514 | Oral surgery can be a nerve-wracking experience for many people. Whether it’s a tooth extraction, dental implant placement or other dental procedure, knowing what to expect can help ease your anxiety and ensure a happy and successful outcome. Today, we will discuss the essential steps to help you prepare for oral surgery, anticipate what happens during the procedure, and what you can expect during your recovery process.
Before Surgery
Before undergoing oral surgery, you need to schedule a consultation with our oral surgeon. During this visit, our surgeon will examine your teeth, gums, and jaws and discuss the details of your upcoming procedure, including anesthesia options, anticipated recovery time and potential risks. It is essential to inform our surgeon about your medical history, including any allergies, medications you are currently taking, and any previous surgeries you have undergone.
Depending on the type of oral surgery, you may need to make some preparations beforehand. If you are undergoing a tooth extraction, you may need to stop taking certain medications that can thin your blood (like aspirin) a few days before your scheduled surgery. You may also be required to fast for a few hours before your procedure, especially if you are going to receive general anesthesia.
During Surgery
During your oral surgery, we will first administer anesthesia to make you feel comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Depending on the type of surgery you are having and your personal preferences, you may receive a local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the surgical site, or a general anesthesia, which makes you sleep throughout the procedure and you won’t be awake during the surgery.
Once you are comfortable and relaxed, our oral surgeon will begin the surgical procedure, using specialized tools and techniques to remove the damaged or affected tissue, bone or teeth, depending on the surgery’s purpose. While you may hear some noise and feel some pressure during the procedure, you should not feel any pain.
After Surgery
After the oral surgery, you will need some time to recover and allow your body to heal. Your recovery time may vary, depending on the type of surgery you had, but you can expect to feel some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding during the first few days afterwards. Our surgical team will provide you with instructions on how to properly care for your mouth, including what to eat, how to brush and floss your teeth, and when to return for your follow-up visit.
Smooth Recovery
It is crucial to follow our oral surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure that you will have a smooth and speedy recovery. You might need pain medication, use ice packs, and avoid certain foods and activities for a few days to allow the surgical site to heal properly. You should also avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as they can delay the healing process and even increase your risk of complications.
Call Today!
Knowing what to expect before, during and after your procedure can help you feel prepared mentally and physically and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Our team is here to make your recovery time as smooth as possible. If you follow all the necessary instructions, you can look forward to getting back to your normal life soon with a healthier and more beautiful smile! Please reach out to our office if you have any questions or concerns.