How to Prepare for Oral Surgery and a Successful Healing Process

Oral surgery is an important step toward restoring your dental health, and preparation plays a major role in ensuring everything goes smoothly. Whether you're coming in for a tooth extraction, dental implant, or another surgical procedure, knowing what to expect before and after your appointment can help you feel more confident and comfortable.

At Washington Family Dental, our team is committed to making your experience stress-free. Led by Dr. Lesinski, we take time to educate our patients, answer questions, and guide them through the process with clear communication and compassion. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for oral surgery and heal successfully afterward.

This Article Will Address:

• Why preparing for oral surgery matters
• What to ask your dentist or oral surgeon before the procedure
• Night-before surgery tips
• What to wear and bring to your appointment
• Why do you need someone to drive you home
• How to prep your home for recovery
• How to care for your mouth post-surgery
• What makes Washington Family Dental the trusted choice for oral surgery in Washington, MI
• Common questions about healing and recovery

Why Is Preparing for Oral Surgery Important?

Preparation isn't just about showing up on time. It's a critical part of ensuring a smooth surgery and a complication-free recovery. Being informed helps reduce anxiety, minimizes risks, and ensures that both you and your surgical team are on the same page.

At Washington Family Dental, many of our patients express appreciation for how thoroughly we explain every detail in advance. We believe peace of mind starts with good communication—and that’s exactly what we deliver.

What Questions Should I Ask My Oral Surgeon Before the Procedure?

Asking the right questions helps you feel prepared and confident. Before your appointment, consider asking:

• What type of sedation or anesthesia will be used?
• How long will the procedure take?
• What should I expect during recovery?
• Are there any medications I should avoid beforehand or need to take?
• Will I need to take time off from work or school?
• What are the risks or complications?

We encourage open conversations and are always happy to walk you through the answers, so you know exactly what to expect.

What Should I Do the Night Before Oral Surgery?

The night before your dental surgery is a great time to finalize the small but important details.

• Avoid alcohol and tobacco: Both can interfere with anesthesia and healing.
• Get a good night’s rest: Sleep supports healing and lowers stress.
• Pack a small bag: Include your ID, insurance card, list of medications, and anything you might want for comfort.
• If you will be undergoing sedation
  • Follow fasting instructions: If you're undergoing sedation, don’t eat or drink for at least 6–8 hours prior.
  • Confirm your transportation: You’ll need a trusted adult to drive you home.

What Should I Wear to My Oral Surgery Appointment?

Your comfort and safety come first.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Opt for short sleeves for IV access
• Avoid jewelry, makeup, contact lenses, or perfume
• Avoid fancy or expensive outfits, especially tops
• Pull back long hair to keep it away from the surgical area

Being prepared in this way helps us care for you efficiently and ensures you’re comfortable throughout the visit.

Do I Need Someone to Drive Me Home After Oral Surgery?

If you are having a procedure done in the office without sedation, ie, with only local anesthesia or numbing, most patients are comfortable and able to drive themselves.

If you are undergoing oral or IV sedation, then yes, you’ll absolutely need someone to accompany you. Sedation or anesthesia affects your reflexes and alertness, making it unsafe to drive. In fact, we won’t proceed with the procedure unless you’ve arranged transportation.

It’s also helpful to have someone stay with you for a few hours after you get home. A second set of ears can help you remember post-op instructions, too.

How Do I Prepare My Home for Oral Surgery Recovery?

Your recovery starts the moment you return home. Setting up your space ahead of time makes a big difference.

Here’s a checklist to follow:

• Prepare a quiet recovery space with extra pillows and blankets
• Stock your fridge with soft foods like yogurt, pudding, applesauce, soup, and smoothies
• Make sure you have ice packs ready to reduce swelling
• Fill prescriptions in advance, if possible
• Have gauze and over-the-counter pain relief on hand (unless otherwise instructed)
• Ask a family member or friend to assist you for the first few hours

How Do I Keep My Mouth Clean After Oral Surgery?

Oral hygiene is critical to avoid infection and promote healing, but it must be done gently.

• Avoid brushing near the surgical site for the first 24 hours
• Do not rinse your mouth during the first day
• After 24 hours, begin gentle rinses with water 2–3 times per day or as necessary to keep the surgery area clean
• Avoid commercial mouthwashes with alcohol, as they can irritate the area
• Follow all post-op cleaning instructions given to you during your appointment

Why Choose Washington Family Dental for Your Oral Surgery?

At Washington Family Dental, we take pride in combining clinical excellence with true patient care. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Dr. Lesinski brings years of surgical experience and patient care
• We offer transparent pricing and go over your treatment plan in detail before you commit
• Our family-friendly dentist office makes patients of all ages feel at ease
• We offer same-day emergency care when you need it most
• Patients consistently report low-anxiety visits and a clear understanding of their care plan

Oral Surgery Recovery Support in Washington, MI

We understand that oral surgery can feel intimidating, but we’re here to make it simple and successful. From your first consultation to your final follow-up, Dr. Lesinski and our experienced dental team are committed to providing exceptional care in a supportive environment.

If you're planning oral surgery, let us help you feel confident, prepared, and well cared for. Contact us today to schedule an oral surgery consultation at Washington Family Dental in Washington, MI. 

Sources:

• American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS): www.aaoms.org
• MouthHealthy by the American Dental Association: www.mouthhealthy.org
• Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org