It’s common for patients to feel anxious about going in for oral surgery. Knowing what to expect can help to ease any fears they may have, though. Read on to find out how to prepare for a visit to an Oral Surgeon in Short Hills, NJ to get started.
The Initial Consultation
All patients will be scheduled for an initial consultation prior to their surgeries, regardless of the kind of procedure will be performed. This gives surgeons the chance to identify any potential problems and patients the opportunity to ask questions to get a better idea of what to expect.
Preparing for Surgery
If general anesthesia will be used, the patient will be asked to abstain from eating for around 12 hours prior to the surgery. This is not an issue with local anesthesia, which might be another option. Either way, patients should plan a ride home following their appointments when general anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or any kind of oral sedative will be used.
Healing and Aftercare
Patients should expect swelling and discomfort to last for around 48 hours following any oral surgery. During this period, surgeons recommend taking it easy, avoiding strenuous exercise or heavy lifting, and spending a lot of time in bed.
The time it will take to heal completely from the surgery will depend on the procedure performed. Wisdom tooth extractions and implant placements typically take one or two weeks to heal, while jaw surgeries can take a month or more to heal completely.
What to Eat After Surgery
Patients should stick to soft foods and liquids for the first 48 hours following any procedures. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks immediately following the surgery. When in doubt about a certain food, patients should ask their Oral Surgeon in Short Hills, NJ if it’s permissible to eat and should err on the side of caution.
Learn More Today
Interested in learning more about surgical interventions for TMJ, sleep apnea, missing teeth, or wisdom tooth problems? Visit Westfield Oral Surgery online today to learn about one local office that can help or call to schedule an appointment to get the process started.
