It is normal to feel anxious about your upcoming oral surgery. But when your oral health is at risk and surgery is the only solution, you'll have to prepare ahead of the procedure. Oral surgery may involve removing an infected tooth, installing implants, or extracting tumors. Your dentist can provide tips to help prepare for the upcoming surgery. In the meantime, here are four tips that may come in handy.
1. Discuss the Procedure in Depth
When preparing for oral surgery, learning and understanding the procedure is crucial. You can research online to familiarize yourself and ask your dentist to take you through the entire process. Ask questions where you have concerns and pain points, no matter how trivial you think they are.
A reputable dentist will cover the ins and outs of the dental procedure, including medication and anesthesia. They will also cover the risks and complications if any. Knowing what to expect from the surgery can help you deal with anxiety better.
2. Quit Smoking and Drinking Alcohol
Your dentist might suggest you reduce or stop smoking and drinking alcohol before and after the procedure. Smoking inhibits healing and increases the risk of infection. Quitting the habit ahead of the procedure can improve the healing process. You will also improve your chances of success, especially if the method involves implant or bridge placement.
Avoid drinking alcohol as it increases the potential for post-operative bleeding. Alcohol may also have counter-interactive effects with drugs administered before and after surgery. Follow your dentist's instructions to have a better experience during the procedure and the recovery phase.
3. Prepare for Post-Procedural Care
Some oral surgeries require general anesthesia. This can limit your judgment and ability to drive for a few days. While many patients underestimate the influence of certain oral operations, it's best to prepare for post-operative care.
Ask a friend or relative to accompany you to the dental clinic for the procedure. They should also wait to take you home once it is done. You can also ask them to spend the night or a few more nights in case you need help. Have someone take care of the kids because you'll need to rest for the next few days.
4. Dress Appropriately
Wear comfortable clothing when heading to the dental clinic for the operation. You could wear a short-sleeved shirt to make space for the IV drip. Avoid wearing strong perfumes, heavy make-up, and jewelry that might interfere with the dentist's work.
If you have questions regarding the procedure, ask your dentist before the process commences. Follow any additional instructions provided by the dentist so you'll have an easy time. If you always postpone dental treatment due to anxiety, set that appointment with your dentist immediately.
If you are tired of coming down with dental problems, the problem might not be your toothpaste. Instead, it could be your habits tied to your dental care. Aggressive brushers, people who have a tendency to forget, and even people who are flossing improperly could be left with serious dental issues, which is why it really pays to focus on mastering the small things. From moving forward with a better brushing routine to doing what you can to identify and resolve ongoing decay, making your dental health a priority is instrumental in preventing pain and added budgetary strains. Check out this blog to find out more.