Pre-Op Instructions for Your Periodontal Surgery
General Information About Your Surgery
We will do everything we can to make you as comfortable as possible during and after your surgical appointment. There should be no discomfort during the procedure itself; today’s modern local anesthetics are very effective. Please feel free to bring small headphones if music enhances your ability to relax. Nitrous oxide or IV sedation are available at your request.
We will answer any questions you have before or after the procedure; as well as review postoperative care with you when your appointment is completed.
Remember, you can reach someone from our office at any time if you have a question or a concern. Please call the office at Rapid City Office Phone Number 605-348-2556.
Preparing for Your Surgery in Advance
Have cold, soft, easy to chew foods available for after your surgery.
The Day of Your Surgery
Eat a good, high protein meal before your surgical appointment, unless scheduled for IV sedation. With IV sedation, do not eat or drink six hours prior to the appointment.
If it pertains to you, take your antibiotic premedication as directed by your physician. Let us know if you need a refill.
Pre-Operative Instructions for IV Sedation
Eating:
For morning appointments: Do not eat breakfast. NO caffeine. Sips of water can be taken up to 3 hours before your appointment.
For afternoon appointments: Do not eat for 6 hours prior to your appointment. NO caffeine. Sips of water can be taken up to 3 hours before your appointment.
Alcoholic beverages: Do not drink any alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to your appointment. Alcohol is a drug and it can interfere with the drugs used for sedation.
Medications: Medications that you normally take should be continued unless told otherwise by this office. PLEASE BRING A COMPLETE LIST OF ALL MEDICATIONS AND SUPPLEMENTS THAT YOU TAKE; PLEASE INCLUDE DOSES.
Clothing: Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (preferable a button-down shirt) and flat shoes should be worn.
Escort: You will require a ride home. Your escort is recommended to remain in our building during your procedure and stay with you until you are sufficiently recovered.
Following Surgery
- Do not drive, cook or operate machinery for 24 hours following IV sedation. The drugs used for sedation can stay in your system for 24 hours.
- Do not make any important decisions or sign any legal documents for 24 hours following surgery.
- Do not use alcohol or sleeping aids/sleeping prescriptions
Commonly Asked Questions About Periodontal Surgery
- Can I eat before surgery?
Yes, you are encouraged to do so, unless scheduled for IV sedation. - Can I eat after surgery?
Yes, a cold, soft diet the first day and a normal, soft diet the second day. - Can I drive myself home?
It depends on the procedure and pre-op meds given to you. We do recommend a driver so that you can keep ice on the area. - What kind of anesthetic do you use?
We use a local anesthetic (just like the anesthetic used for a filling). Nitrous oxide or IV sedation is available. - Will medication be prescribed?
Generally pain medication is prescribed. Antibiotics will be prescribed if necessary. - Will there be stitches?
Some procedures require sutures. Tissue adhesive may also be used. - When will I be able to return to work/ school?
We recommend rest the remainder of the day following surgery. Most people return to work the next day depending on job type and restricted physical activities. Students may return to school the next day with an exception regarding physical activities and playing musical instruments with your mouth. - Will I need to come back?
Yes. We schedule a post-op appointment in approximately 1-3 weeks. - Will I be able to wear my appliance/ retainers/partials/dentures?
Please bring this with you so we can determine whether you can continue to wear your removable device during healing after surgery.