Pre-op & Post-op Instructions

 Pre-Operative Instructions

To ensure a safe and smooth procedure, please follow these guidelines before your appointment:

General Preparation

  • Provide a full medical history, including medications, allergies, and existing conditions
  • Inform the clinic of any recent illness, infection, or changes in your health
  • Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you if sedation will be used

Eating & Drinking

  • If undergoing IV sedation, do not eat or drink anything for at least 6–8 hours before your appointment
  • For non-sedation procedures, light meals may be allowed unless advised otherwise

Medications

  • Take prescribed medications as directed by your dentist or surgeon
  • Avoid blood-thinning medications (only if instructed by your doctor)
  • Do not consume alcohol 24 hours before your procedure

Clothing & Personal Items

  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
  • Avoid makeup, jewelry, or contact lenses on the day of surgery
  • If sedation is planned, avoid wearing nail polish or heavy cosmetics

Day of Procedure

  • Arrive on time or slightly early
  • Follow all instructions provided by your dental office
  • Ask questions if anything is unclear before the procedure begins

 

Post-Operative Instructions

Proper aftercare is essential for healing and preventing complications.

Immediately After Surgery

  • Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding (usually 30–60 minutes)
  • Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw for the first 24 hours
  • Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day

Pain Management

  • Take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed
  • Mild discomfort and swelling are normal and should improve within a few days

Swelling & Ice Application

  • Apply an ice pack to the outside of the face (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) for the first 24 hours
  • Swelling typically peaks within 48–72 hours

Diet

  • Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies
  • Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods during the initial healing period
  • Stay hydrated, but avoid using straws

Oral Hygiene

  • Do not brush directly over the surgical site on the first day
  • Resume gentle brushing after 24 hours
  • Rinse with warm salt water after 24 hours (if advised)

Activity

  • Avoid heavy lifting, exercise, or strenuous activity for at least 24–48 hours
  • Gradually return to normal routine as you feel comfortable

Important Precautions

  • Do not smoke or use tobacco products during healing
  • Avoid alcohol while taking medication
  • Follow all specific instructions given for your procedure

When to Contact the Clinic

Please get in touch immediately if you experience:

  • Excessive or prolonged bleeding
  • Severe pain not relieved by medication
  • Signs of infection (fever, swelling that worsens, unusual discharge)
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing