Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS
Reading time: four minutes
Whether you are preparing for dental implant surgery or another type of oral surgery, a few simple steps can make the experience easier. Planning ahead helps you stay comfortable on surgery day and supports a smoother recovery at home.
Table of Contents
- 1. Ask the Right Questions Early
- 2. Review Medications and Supplements
- 3. Plan Your Support System
- 4. Follow All Pre-Op Instructions Carefully
- 5. Prepare Your Home and Grocery List
- 6. Prioritize Rest the Night Before
- 7. Arrange Transportation Ahead of Time
- 8. Arrive On Time
- Schedule Your Oral Surgery Consultation
- FAQ
1. Ask the Right Questions Early
Clear communication helps remove uncertainty and builds confidence going into surgery. Use your consultation to fully understand your procedure and recovery expectations.
Before moving forward, make sure you ask about:
- Expected recovery timeline
- Pain management and swelling
- Post-op restrictions and follow-up care
When you leave your appointment with clear answers, you can prepare without second-guessing yourself.
2. Review Medications and Supplements
Medications can affect bleeding, anesthesia, and healing, which makes this step especially important. Your surgical team needs an accurate picture of everything you take.
Before surgery:
- Provide a full list of prescriptions including blood thinners an insulin
- Include over-the-counter medications
- List vitamins, herbal supplements, and natural remedies
Your provider will let you know if anything needs to be paused or adjusted before surgery.
3. Plan Your Support System
The recovery process goes more smoothly when you’re not trying to do everything yourself. Having support in place allows your body to rest and heal.
Ask someone to:
- Drive you home after surgery
- Pick up prescriptions
- Prepare meals
- Manage childcare or household tasks
A clear plan lowers stress and helps the first few days feel more manageable.
4. Follow All Pre-Op Instructions Carefully
Pre-operative instructions protect your safety during surgery. These guidelines are specific to your procedure and sedation plan.
Common instructions may include:
- Fasting for a set number of hours
- Avoiding certain medications
- Wearing comfortable clothing
- Arriving early for check-in
Following these directions closely helps prevent delays or complications on surgery day.
5. Prepare Your Home and Grocery List
Setting up your home in advance makes the first few recovery days much easier. Focus on comfort, soft foods and easy nutrition.
Stock your kitchen with:
- Soups and broths (lukewarm, not hot)
- Mashed potatoes or soft pastas
- Applesauce and yogurt
- Smoothies without seeds or straws
- Protein shakes
Also keep ice packs, water, and prescribed medications within easy reach.
6. Prioritize Rest the Night Before
Your body heals better when it’s well-rested. Sleep also helps regulate stress and inflammation.
The night before surgery:
- Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals
- Limit caffeine later in the day
Even if you feel nervous, rest still supports your recovery.
7. Arrange Transportation Ahead of Time
Sedation affects coordination and alertness, which means you cannot drive after your procedure.
Make sure:
- A responsible adult brings you to the appointment
- The same person takes you home
- They can stay with you for a short time if needed
Having transportation arranged ahead of time prevents last-minute stress.
8. Arrive On Time
Arrive on time so your team can go over the last details and make sure you are fully prepared before the procedure begins
On surgery day:
- Bring required paperwork or ID
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Do not wear makeup or jewelry
A calm, organized arrival sets the tone for the entire experience.
Schedule Your Oral Surgery Consultation
If you’re planning oral surgery or have questions about how to prepare, we’re here to help. Our team provides clear guidance, personalized pre and post operative instructions, and ongoing support to help you feel confident from start to finish.
To book an appointment at our Highlands Ranch location, call (303) 683-1144. For our Sloan’s Lake location, call (303) 683-1144.
FAQ
Many procedures require fasting for several hours beforehand, especially if sedation is involved. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your surgical team, as these post-op instructions often begin before surgery day.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid jewelry, makeup, or contact lenses if instructed. Comfort helps on both surgery and recovery days, particularly for longer procedures like gum surgery to dental implant placement.
Avoid crunchy, spicy, hot, or hard foods. Stick to soft, cool options that won’t irritate the surgical area, and take any prescribed or recommended pain relievers exactly as directed to stay comfortable during healing.
Feeling nervous is common. Share your concerns with your provider—they can explain sedation options, review expectations, and remind you how good oral hygiene before surgery supports smoother healing and reduces complications.