Oral surgery can be an intimidating prospect for many patients, but with the right preparation, you can set yourself up for a smoother experience and quicker recovery. At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery in El Paso, we understand the anxiety that often accompanies surgical procedures. That’s why Dr. Mark DuVernois and Dr. Scott Marshall take the time to walk each patient through the process, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to prepare for your oral surgery, from pre-surgery instructions to what you can expect during recovery.

Why Might You Need Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery is often recommended for a variety of reasons, including:

• Tooth extractions (including impacted wisdom teeth)
• Dental implants to replace missing teeth
• Bone grafting to build up jawbone strength
• TMJ surgery to relieve chronic jaw pain
• Sleep apnea treatment to improve breathing during sleep

No matter the procedure, proper preparation is key to a successful outcome. Here’s how to get ready for your surgery day.

1. Follow Your Pre-Surgery Instructions

Before your surgery, you’ll have a consultation with one of our skilled oral surgeons to evaluate your specific needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. During this visit, you’ll receive detailed pre-surgery instructions, which may include:

• Fasting: If your surgery involves anesthesia, you’ll need to avoid eating or drinking (including water) for 6-8 hours before the procedure. This is to ensure your safety under sedation.
• Medications: Make sure to disclose any medications you’re currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Your surgeon may advise you to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before surgery.
• Transportation: If you’re undergoing sedation or general anesthesia, it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you won’t be able to operate a vehicle.

Adhering to these guidelines will help minimize the risk of complications and ensure that your procedure goes as smoothly as possible.

2. Prepare for Your Recovery at Home

To make your recovery more comfortable, it’s helpful to prepare your home ahead of time. Here are a few things you can do to make sure everything is ready for when you return from surgery:

• Stock up on soft foods: In the first few days after surgery, you’ll want to stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Consider options like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies.
• Create a rest area: Set up a comfortable space where you can rest after surgery. Make sure you have pillows to elevate your head, which helps reduce swelling.
• Ice packs: Have ice packs on hand to apply to the outside of your face to minimize swelling and discomfort.
• Pain management: Your surgeon will provide guidance on pain management, which may include over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication. Make sure you have these medications ready at home, along with any post-op instructions.

Preparing your home in advance will allow you to focus on resting and healing after your procedure.

3. What to Expect on Surgery Day

On the day of your oral surgery, arrive at our El Paso office a few minutes early to check in and complete any necessary paperwork. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

• Sedation and anesthesia: Depending on the complexity of your surgery and your comfort level, we offer several sedation options, including local anesthesia, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Dr. DuVernois and Dr. Marshall will ensure that you’re completely numb and relaxed before the surgery begins.
• The procedure itself: Oral surgeries typically take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case. Your surgeon will explain the process beforehand and keep you informed at every stage.
• Post-surgery recovery: After the surgery, you’ll spend some time in the recovery room until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. Once you’re stable, you’ll be able to go home to rest.

Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help promote healing and prevent complications.

4. Aftercare Tips for a Smooth Recovery

The recovery period following oral surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure you’ve had. However, most patients experience mild discomfort, swelling, and some bleeding for the first few days. Here are some general aftercare tips to help you recover comfortably:

• Rest: Take it easy for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. Avoid strenuous activities and allow your body time to heal.
• Manage pain and swelling: Use ice packs to reduce swelling and take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your surgeon.
• Keep the area clean: Follow the specific oral hygiene instructions provided by your surgeon to keep the surgery site clean. This may involve gently rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution after 24 hours.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of infection. It’s best to avoid these for at least 72 hours after surgery.

If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as excessive bleeding, fever, or intense pain, contact our office immediately.

Why Choose Us for Oral Surgery in El Paso?

At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery, Dr. Mark DuVernois and Dr. Scott Marshall are both board-certified oral surgeons with years of experience in providing compassionate, expert care to patients in El Paso. Our practice is equipped with the latest technology to ensure precise, safe procedures, and we’re committed to making every patient feel comfortable and supported throughout their treatment.

We offer a variety of sedation options to help alleviate any anxiety you may have about surgery, and our team will work closely with you to ensure a smooth recovery.

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