General Dental Surgical Instructions in Los Angeles
Please feel free to bring music tapes or CDs to listen to during your dental appointment.
Dental Prescriptions and Medications:
- Have any prescriptions filled prior to your oral surgery date.
- A sedative is available upon request.
- The sedative must be taken one hour prior to dental appointment.
- If a sedative is taken, you must have a driver.
- If Motrin (Ibuprofen) and/or an antibiotic are prescribed, begin taking as directed on your prescription.
- We advise you to take the pain medication before your numbness wears off.
- Avoid alcohol and aspirin 3 to 5 days prior to oral surgery, as they are blood thinners and may cause excessive bleeding and delay healing.
- Please eat a good meal before your appointment, as you will be numb when you leave and may not feel like eating or drinking for a while.
Have an Ice Pack at Home:
- The use of ice will help reduce swelling and pain after oral surgery.
- Ice is useful for the first 6-8 hours after oral surgery.
- Moist heat may be applied the day following oral surgery, for additional comfort.
Diet Suggestions:
- Have soft foods available: pasta, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, tofu, and potatoes are good choices.
- Make certain to eat prior to surgery, you may not feel much like eating after surgery, and it will be helpful when taking your medications.
- Avoid caffeine before oral surgery.
Recuperation:
- Allow 24 to 48 hours of rest after your oral surgery.
- Minimize your activity during the healing process.
- Avoid activities that will elevate your heart rate and blood pressure.
- Healing will occur much faster by resting at least 24 hours after surgery.
