Preparing For A Successful Oral Surgery Procedure

Oral surgery is often necessary to treat a variety of dental conditions involving the teeth, jaws, and surrounding facial structures. From impacted teeth and difficult extractions to corrective jaw surgery, implants, or TMJ treatment, oral surgery plays an important role in comprehensive dental care.

If you or a loved one are preparing for an upcoming procedure, following a few key steps can ensure your comfort, safety, and a smooth recovery. As a trusted dentist in Aurora Colorado, Highpoint Dental Care & Implant Center offers guidance to help patients prepare effectively.

Step 1: Speak with Your Dentist or Oral Surgeon

Before your scheduled oral surgery, it's essential to have a thorough consultation with your provider. This discussion should cover:

• The steps involved in the procedure
• Sedation or anesthesia options
• Pre- and post-operative instructions
• Questions or concerns about recovery

Clear communication allows you to feel more confident and prepared going into treatment. If you’re having your procedure completed here, our team will ensure you know exactly what to expect.

Explore our advanced surgical services for more information on the treatments we offer.

Step 2: Arrange Transportation and At-Home Support

After oral surgery, especially when sedation or anesthesia is used, patients should not drive or operate machinery. Be sure to arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment and drive you home.

If possible, have someone available to assist you during the first 24 hours of recovery, especially if you have young children or live alone.

Step 3: Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions Closely

Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide guidelines before your procedure. These may include:

• Avoid eating or drinking for at least 8 hours prior to surgery if undergoing IV sedation or general anesthesia
• Stop smoking at least 12 hours before your appointment (and continue avoiding tobacco for 24 hours or more afterward)
• Brush and floss your teeth before the appointment, unless told otherwise

Following these instructions helps reduce surgical risks and promotes better healing.

Step 4: Dress Comfortably and Avoid Jewelry

Wear loose, short-sleeved, comfortable clothing to your appointment. Avoid wearing valuable or restrictive garments, and leave jewelry, watches, and contact lenses at home.

During the procedure, your eyes may remain closed and your body at rest, so minimal accessories are preferred. You may want to apply lip balm beforehand, as lips can become dry during surgery.

Step 5: Prepare Your Post-Surgical Diet Ahead of Time

After oral surgery, your diet will be restricted to soft foods for several days. Stock up on and prepare items like:

• Mashed potatoes
• Smoothies
• Protein shakes
• Soup (lukewarm)
• Yogurt or pudding

Avoid hot, spicy, hard, crunchy, or acidic foods that could irritate healing tissue. Maintaining a nutritious diet during recovery is key to healing and avoiding complications.

If your oral surgery is part of a larger smile makeover or tooth replacement plan, explore our full mouth reconstruction or dental implant services to learn more.

Schedule Your Dental Surgery Consultation in Aurora, CO

If you believe you may need oral surgery, early evaluation and planning are critical. Our experienced team at Highpoint Dental Care & Implant Center will guide you through every step—from diagnosis to recovery—with comfort, safety, and excellence in care.

We serve patients in Aurora, Centennial, Parker, Green Valley Ranch, and surrounding areas of Colorado.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation with a trusted dentist in Aurora Colorado.