Part of what makes surgery so daunting is the unfamiliarity of it. After all, you don’t do this every day. At Hunt Family Dentistry, we want you to feel ready for your procedure in every sense—physically and emotionally. Check out our guide to oral surgery in Frisco, TX, covering everything from how long recovery takes to the best meals before surgery. We’ll help you gain confidence to navigate the days before and after your procedure. 

Bouncing Back: How Much Time to Take Off

One of the first questions that come to mind when planning for oral surgery is how long you’ll need to recover. The timeframe can vary based on the complexity of your procedure and your personal healing rate. For minor tooth extraction surgeries like wisdom teeth removal, most people find that taking two to three days off work is enough. During this time, you can rest, manage any discomfort, and keep swelling under control.

However, more extensive surgeries might require a longer recovery period. If you’re having jaw surgery or multiple extractions, we might recommend taking up to a week off. Listen to your body and allow yourself the necessary time to heal completely before returning to your regular routine. 

Don’t Dress to Impress: Wear What’s Comfortable

You can show up in your pajamas if that will make you feel most at ease! Generally, opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to keep you relaxed during the procedure. Soft, cozy fabrics will make you feel more comfortable in the chair for your Frisco, TX, oral surgery.

Avoid wearing jewelry or anything that might get in the way during the procedure. It’s best to leave valuables at home to avoid misplacing them during surgery. Also, consider bringing a sweater or jacket to keep you warm in the often cool environment of a dental office. 

What’s on the Menu? Pre-Surgery Eating Guidelines

Eating before oral surgery requires careful planning to avoid risking complications during the procedure or making you nauseous afterward. We typically recommended to avoid eating solid foods for at least six to eight hours before surgery. However, we’ll provide specific instructions for your unique case based on your procedure and sedation type.

If we give you the green light to eat before surgery, choose easily digestible foods like yogurt, applesauce, or smoothies. These options provide energy without overwhelming your digestive system. Stay hydrated by drinking clear liquids, like water or broth, and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. 

Catching a Ride: Arranging Transportation After Surgery

If we use oral conscious sedation during your procedure, you’ll need to set up reliable transportation to and from your oral surgery at our Frisco, TX, office. Enlist the help of a friend, family member, or caregiver to accompany you to the appointment and make sure you get home safely.

Discuss post-surgery care instructions with your designated driver before the procedure—you may not be aware enough to talk about important points immediately after your surgery. We can also make sure to give information to your loved one and answer any questions so that they can assist you as you’re leaving Hunt Family Dentistry. 

Happily Ever Aftercare: Post-Surgery Instructions

After your oral surgery in Frisco, TX, following post-operative care instructions is vital for a successful recovery. We’ll provide specific guidelines based on your procedure, but some general tips apply to most cases. Rest is your top priority—ensure you get plenty of sleep and avoid strenuous activities that could impede healing.

Pain management is another critical aspect of recovery. We may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter options. Follow dosage instructions carefully to manage discomfort effectively. Additionally, applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling during the first 24 to 48 hours.

More Tips for a Smooth and Comfortable Recovery at Home

• Get Cozy: Create a comfortable recovery environment at home for a speedy and pleasant healing process. 
• Stock Up: Before your surgery, get soft foods like mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies to nourish yourself without straining your mouth. 
• Snack Gently: Avoid hard, tough, crunchy, or spicy foods, as these could irritate your surgical site.
• Drink Up: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Check with us before using a straw, as this could cause problems like dry socket after some procedures. 
• Elevate: Keep your head up by propping yourself up with pillows while resting, as this can help reduce swelling. 

Smooth Sailing Through Surgery Recovery

We don’t want you to have to think about anything on the day of your Frisco, TX, oral surgery other than relaxing and getting treatment. With this guide from Hunt Family Dentistry, you can set the stage for a successful procedure. Get personalized surgery prep tips by scheduling your consultation today.