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Pre-Operative & Post-Operative Instructions

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Pre-Operative & Post-Operative Instructions

Your safety, comfort, and healing are our highest priorities. Preparing properly before your procedure and following detailed aftercare instructions will help ensure a smooth experience and optimal recovery.

Please review the information below carefully. If you have questions at any time, our team is always available to help.

IV Sedation or General Anesthesia: Before Your Procedure

If you are scheduled to receive IV sedation or general anesthesia, it is extremely important that you do not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before your appointment. This includes water. Failing to follow this guideline may require your procedure to be rescheduled for your safety. If you take routine medications, you may take them as directed with only a small sip of water unless instructed otherwise.

On the morning of your surgery, shower and wash your face thoroughly. Do not wear makeup, lipstick, lotions, or facial products. Please remove nail polish from at least one finger so we can properly monitor you during sedation. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to your arms for IV placement and monitoring, along with stable shoes.

What to Expect

If you are receiving IV sedation or general anesthesia, you must have a responsible adult over the age of 18 bring you to your appointment and remain on-site during your procedure. This person must drive you home afterward. For safety reasons, rideshare services are not permitted. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

If you have recently been sick, hospitalized, or started new medications, please notify our office prior to your appointment. It is also important to inform us of any alcohol, marijuana, or recreational drug use before sedation.

After Your Procedure

Healing begins immediately after surgery, and proper care at home plays an essential role in your recovery.

Some bleeding is normal during the first several hours. You will be asked to gently bite on gauze to apply pressure. A small amount of pink-tinged saliva is common and not cause for concern. However, persistent heavy bleeding should be reported to our office.

Swelling is also expected and may increase over the first 48 to 72 hours. Applying ice packs during this time and keeping your head elevated while resting can help minimize swelling and discomfort. Some bruising may occur and will gradually fade on its own.

What to Expect

You will receive detailed medication instructions to manage discomfort and prevent infection. It is important to take all medications exactly as prescribed and complete any antibiotic course fully. Mild to moderate soreness, limited jaw movement, and minor temperature elevation within the first 24 hours can be part of normal healing.

Your diet should begin with softer foods, gradually returning to normal as tolerated. Avoid hot liquids on the first day and do not use straws. Staying hydrated will support healing. Gentle brushing can typically resume shortly after surgery, and you may be given additional oral hygiene instructions specific to your procedure.

Smoking significantly delays healing and increases the risk of complications. We strongly recommend avoiding smoking for at least two weeks following surgery.

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When to Contact Our Office

While most recoveries are smooth, please contact us immediately if you experience severe or uncontrolled bleeding, worsening pain that is not relieved by medication, persistent nausea or vomiting, fever over 101°F, or difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

We’re Here for You

Our primary concern is your health and successful healing. Carefully following your pre- and post-operative instructions will help ensure the best possible outcome. If you need clarification at any point before or after your procedure, do not hesitate to contact our office.

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