Preparing for Oral Surgery: What to Eat and What to Avoid

When it comes to oral surgery, preparation is key. It's important to understand what you should and shouldn't eat before the procedure, as well as the potential risks associated with not following the instructions. In this article, we'll discuss the dietary guidelines for preparing for oral surgery, as well as the risks of not following them. Before any oral surgery, it's important to follow your dentist or surgeon's instructions. Generally, you should not eat or drink anything (including water) for eight hours before your appointment.

If you need to take medication, do not drink more than half a glass of water. If you are under sedation, you should refrain from eating or drinking anything 12 hours before the procedure. When your stomach is completely empty, you won't have stomach contents to vomit or material for your lungs to breathe in. To ensure that your stomach is empty, plan ahead a menu of soft foods that require little or no chewing. Avoid spicy or acidic foods that can irritate your gums.

Protein drinks such as Boost, SlimFast or Ensure are great sources of nutrition during early recovery. Oats and other quick-cooking foods are also great. It's also important to avoid using a straw to drink beverages, especially after a tooth has been extracted. Sucking a straw can cause a painful condition known as dry alveolitis, which can cause you to return to the dentist for further treatment. If the surgery requires local anesthesia, you may be allowed to eat something light an hour or two in advance, but be sure to brush well and floss before you arrive. For patients who only receive local anesthesia, the process of preparing for oral surgery is simple. Equally important is the fact that you cannot smoke for at least 12 hours before oral surgery and for a minimum of 24 hours after.

If you choose conscious oral sedation, your dentist or surgeon will likely provide you with medication to take before the procedure. It's important to follow these guidelines carefully in order to ensure a successful outcome from your oral surgery. By following these instructions and avoiding certain foods and drinks before the procedure, you can reduce the risk of complications and ensure that your surgery goes smoothly.