Surgical Instructions

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I. Preoperative Instructions

Please Read Carefully

1. If you are going to have intravenous sedation or a general anesthetic for your surgery, please follow the instructions listed below:
   
   
   1. DO NOT HAVE ANYTHING TO EAT OR DRINK for at least 8 hours prior to your surgery (not even water). This information is provided for your health and safety. Failure to heed these instructions will result in the cancellation of your appointment.
      
      
   2. Wear a loose, non-binding short-sleeved shirt and comfortable shoes.
      
      
   3. Please remove contact lenses prior to surgery.
      
      
   4. Please do not wear perfume, cologne or nail polish on the day of surgery.
      
      
   5. Make arrangements to have someone bring you to your appointment and wait in the office to drive you home after your appointment. YOU MUST HAVE AN ADULT STAY WITH YOU AFTER SURGERY. YOU MUST NOT BE LEFT UNATTENDED.
      
      
2. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian prior to any treatment.
   
   
3. Payment for services rendered is due at the time of surgery unless previous arrangements have been made.
   
   

If you have any questions concerning the above, please feel free to contact our office at 860-443-3619.


II. Postoperative Instructions

Please follow instructions as designated. They will add to your comfort and hasten your recovery.

1. Do not disturb the surgical area with your tongue, toothbrushing or a mouthwash for the first 24 hours.
   
   
2. Good nutrition must be maintained following oral surgery. Plenty of liquids are needed at first, and the diet should be increased to soft or regular foods as early as you are able. Do not miss meals, even though soreness and jaw stiffness may be present. Avoid extremely hot beverages or drinking with a straw during the first two days after surgery since this may aggravate bleeding.
   
   
3. Some bleeding following oral surgery is to be expected and slight oozing may persist during the day of surgery. Pressure applied over the surgical areas by biting on a small piece of moistened gauze or moistened tea bag will control this normal process.
   
   
4. Use the prescribed medication as directed for pain. It is recommended your first dose of pain medication be taken before the anesthetic wears off to help control postoperative discomfort more effectively. To avoid nausea, do not take pain medication on an empty stomach.
   
   
5. Good hygiene is important for normal healing. Do not begin mouth rinses until the first day following surgery; at that time use 1/4 teaspoon of salt in an 8 ounce glass of warm water 3 - 4 times per day. Gentle toothbrushing should be started at this time, being careful to avoid undue irritation of the surgical areas.
   
   
6. Oral surgical procedures are often accompanied by facial swelling and this should not be cause for alarm. A noticeable increase in swelling may occur during the second or third postoperative day and is not abnormal. You may help minimize the swelling by applying an icebag on the face 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off for the first 48 hours after surgery.
   
   
7. If you have received a sedative or general anesthetic for your oral surgery, you should not drive any vehicle or attempt any hazardous tasks the day of surgery. Many surgical procedures require the use of pain medication post-operatively, which can make you drowsy. Therefore, do not drive while taking such medication.
   
   
8. Nausea may be caused by swallowing blood, taking pills on an empty stomach or occasionally due to the surgery or anesthetic. For relief, flat soda may be sipped slowly. If this is tolerated, crackers or bland foods may be taken. If you experience nausea, stop taking your narcotic pain medication and switch to over the counter pain medication. If nausea persists, call our office.
   
   
9. Resting with the head slightly elevated the first one to two days following surgery will make your postoperative course more comfortable. Avoid physical exertion or exercise the day of surgery.
   
   
10. Better healing is obtained when you avoid smoking during the early healing period (5-7 days).
    
    
11. If your contact with the doctor is urgent, he may be reached by dialing the office number: 860-443-3619
    
    

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