Pre-Op Surgical Instructions for Austin, TX Procedures

Preparing for Surgery at Austin Oral Surgery

When it comes to having oral surgery, it is important that you are prepared adequately and that you know what to expect. Austin Oral Surgery provides pre-op surgical instructions in Austin, TX so that you know how to prepare for your next oral procedure. Our knowledgeable staff has put together informative instructions to help you get ready and feel confident in your treatment plan. We have put together this information so that your experience and the outcome of your treatment are the best they can be. We will walk you through the steps to prepare for your surgery so that you do not show up without knowing what to expect. When you follow our guidelines, you are guaranteed to have a successful treatment.

General Pre-Operative Instructions

Whether you are having your wisdom teeth removed or you are having a general tooth extraction performed, it is necessary that you come into the office all ready to go. Our general pre-operative instructions will help you get ready for your appointment at Austin Oral Surgery. Our pre-operative instructions include the following:

• Be Prepared — Your operation will require some downtime whether it be a few hours or a few days. It is important that you have prepared to rest during this downtime, meaning that you have scheduled time off from work or school. Our doctor will review the post-operative procedures with you at the completion of your appointment. At this time, you should ask any questions you still have about your recuperation period.
• Be Organized — If you are under the age of 18, you will need to have a parent or legal guardian with you during your surgery. If you are receiving oral sedation or IV sedation, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. It is necessary that these accommodations are organized before you arrive at your appointment.
• Be Equipped — During the procedure, we ask that your phone be turned off. If you prefer to listen to your own music during the operation, you can bring a music device with small headphones for you to use during your appointment. You should also arrive wearing loose-fitting clothing and comfortable footwear so that you remain relaxed during your procedure.

Oral Surgery Instructions: Anesthesia and IV Sedation

For every surgical operation, you will be given local anesthesia. It is important to note this for your preparation. Additionally, there are several levels of sedation dentistry, and you will need to prepare accordingly for which one you will be given. It is important to know what type of anesthesia you will be receiving to ensure your safety and the success of the procedure. If you are unsure what type of anesthesia you will be receiving, reach out to our medical staff at Austin Oral Surgery, and they will let you know. Here is how you can prepare for the type of anesthesia you will be given:

• Local Anesthesia — If you are receiving only local anesthesia, you will need to eat a light meal several hours prior to your appointment. You will be able to drive yourself to and from your appointment if you wish, but bringing someone for more extensive procedures may be the best choice.
• Oral Sedation — When you are given an oral sedative, you should not eat or drink anything for six hours before your appointment. You will also need someone to drive you to and from your appointment when given an oral sedative. This person will need to be present at the office during your surgery as well.
• Nitrous Oxide — Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is used in conjunction with a local anesthetic. This means that you will only be able to eat a light meal several hours before your appointment. It is not required to have someone drive you to and from your appointment, but you may wish to have someone drive you if undergoing a more extensive procedure.
• IV Anesthesia — When using IV sedatives, you will have to arrive at your appointment on an empty stomach. This means that if your appointment is at or before 1:30 PM, you cannot eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight the night before your appointment. If your appointment is after 1:30 PM, you may eat a light breakfast no later than 6 hours before your surgery. You may only have six ounces of fluids with this breakfast, and they are limited to water, apple juice, and plain black coffee. You may not eat or drink anything else after this light breakfast. You will not be able to drive or operate any machinery for at least 24 hours after your surgery, so someone will need to drive you, stay with you during the procedure, and drive you home from your appointment. Do not drink alcohol the day before your appointment. You should wear comfortable and warm two-piece clothing with sleeves that can be easily pulled above the elbow. Your shoes should be closed-toe and comfortable. Jewelry and contacts should be removed prior to your procedure.

Dental Surgery Pre-Op Instructions: Medications

If our doctors prescribe you medications for your surgery, it is important that you have them filled prior to your surgical appointment. The medications should be taken as prescribed by our doctor. If you have been prescribed antibiotics, ibuprofen, or peridex, you should start taking them the night before your surgery. The instructions will be listed on the prescription bottle. You should continue taking any and all medications that have been prescribed by other doctors. If you have to take medication on the day of your surgery, it is crucial that you use as little water as possible to swallow them. Following these instructions is necessary for a successful surgical operation.

Prepare for Your Procedure With Austin Oral Surgery Today

Austin Oral Surgery cares about its patients. With our Austin, TX pre-op surgical instructions, you can be confident that your next operation will go smoothly, no matter which of our twelve locations you are visiting. It is crucial that you are adequately prepared for your oral surgery. Our team has worked hard over the years to ensure our patients’ comfort and safety is our number one priority. After reviewing all of our dental surgery pre-op instructions, you can call our office with any questions you may have. Our doctors will make sure to go over these steps to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Contact us today to schedule your oral surgery.