Pre-Operative Instructions for Dental Procedures and Surgery
Medical Considerations
Disclose your full medical history: Include all medications, supplements, allergies, and any medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart problems, bleeding disorders).
Medications:
Take medications as directed by your dentist or physician.
If you're on blood thinners, talk to your prescribing provider at least 2 weeks BEFORE your procedure.
If you require antibiotic prophylaxis (e.g. for heart valve issues), take antibiotics as prescribed 1 hour before the appointment.
Bring a list of all current medications.
Eating & Fasting
Hydrate well the day before.
For local anesthesia, eat a filling meal before.
For oral sedation, eat a light meal a few hours before.
For IV Sedation- see IV Sedation Page for detailed instructions.
Clothing & Hygiene
Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Brush your teeth before the appointment.
Transportation & Escorts
If undergoing sedation or general anesthesia:
You must bring a responsible adult to drive you home.
Do not plan to drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours.
Smoking & Alcohol
Stop smoking at least 24–48 hours before surgery to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. Avoid smoking for 2 weeks AFTER surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before surgery.
POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
The following instructions are to help you decrease any discomfort, improve the treatment outcome, and to answer questions you might have during the healing process.
THINGS TO AVOID: SMOKING/VAPING, USE OF A STRAW, AND CHEWING GUM FOR 2 WEEKS FOLLOWING PERIODONTAL SURGERY.
NO EXERCISE MORE STRENUOUS THAN A BRISK WALK FOR 1 WEEK FOLLOWING SURGERY.
EATING- SOFT FOOD DIET FOR 2 WEEKS
Eat regularly-a wholesome, balanced diet
Avoid sticky foods, popcorn, chips, nuts, and seeds such as strawberry, poppy, etc.
Cut food into small pieces and try chewing away from the treated area
Use caution when consuming hot beverages or soups.
BLEEDING
There may be some minor oozing of blood the first day. This is not unusual and should correct itself. If excessive bleeding occurs, place a damp gauze bandage against the area and hold with gentle pressure for 15 minutes. If this does not correct the problem, please call the number(s) listed below.
SWELLING AND SOOTHING TREATED AREA
Some swelling will occur and is totally normal. Use of an ice pack next to the treated area can be of significant help in reducing discomfort and swelling. The ice pack is most useful during the first 6-8 hours. The NEXT day try a heat or rice pack as heat will be the most soothing on the treated area.
PAIN
The amount of discomfort will vary with the individual and the extent of the surgery.
Use an ice pack as directed above
Take aspirin, Tylenol, or Ibuprofen every 3-4 hours on a rotating basis.
Take the pain medication prescribed for you as directed
If nausea or other side effects occur with any medication, discontinue its use immediately. Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking pain medications.
CLEANING YOUR MOUTH
Avoid brushing the surgical area until instructed to do so
If instructed to do so, rinse with Peridex (Chlorhexidine) as directed
Rinse your mouth gently- avoid vigorously swishing.
Do not manipulate the surgical area
ANTIBIOTICS
If prescribed, take the antibiotic medication as directed. It is important to finish the antibiotic medication as directed. If side effects occur, discontinue its use immediately, and contact the number(s) listed below.
BONE PARTICLES
If a bone graft was placed in the extraction site, next to your tooth, or next to your implant, you may notice a few small, white, hard fragments of bone in your mouth over the next 1-2 weeks. It is normal for a very small amount of the bone graft to escape during the healing process. If you notice a large amount of the bone material in your mouth, or if there is an opening in your treated area, please call the number(s) listed below.
CTG (Connective Tissue Graft)