What to Set Up at Home Before Going In for Oral Surgery
Posted on 7/15/2024 by Mountain State Oral and Facial Surgery |
 Getting ready for oral surgery can feel overwhelming, but proper preparation at home can make the experience smoother and your recovery more comfortable. By taking these steps before your procedure, you can ensure a swift and stress-free process.
Stock Up on Soft Foods and Beverages:
Following oral surgery, you'll need to stick to a soft diet for a few days. This means avoiding hard, chewy, or spicy foods that could irritate your surgical site. Stock up on soft options like mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, smoothies, and soups. Ensure you have plenty of liquids on hand, too, such as water, broth, and non-caffeinated herbal teas.
Prepare Your Sleeping Area:
Getting adequate rest is crucial post-surgery. Prepare your bedroom for maximum comfort by changing your sheets and ensuring you have plenty of pillows to prop yourself up. You'll likely feel more comfortable sleeping on your back for the first few days, so try out different pillow arrangements before your surgery to find the perfect setup.
Gather Essential Supplies:
Stock up on any necessary supplies before your surgery. This includes gauze, ice packs, pain medication (as prescribed by your doctor), and antiseptic mouthwash. You might also want to have some lip balm on hand to prevent your lips from drying out.
Arrange Transportation:
Oral surgery can leave you feeling groggy, so it's crucial to arrange transportation to and from your appointment. Ask a friend or family member to drive you, or consider using a ride-sharing service. Make sure you inform whoever picks you up about any post-surgery instructions from your doctor.
Inform Your Employer and Loved Ones:
Let your employer know about your upcoming surgery and provide them with a doctor's note, if necessary. This will allow you to take the appropriate time off for recovery. Inform your family and friends about your surgery so they can offer support and assistance during your recovery.
Pack an Overnight Bag (if necessary):
If your surgery requires an overnight stay, pack an overnight bag with comfortable clothes, toiletries, and entertainment items like books or magazines. You might also want to bring a pillow from home to ensure maximum comfort.
Ask Questions and Clarify Instructions:
Don't hesitate to ask your oral surgeon any questions you have about the surgery or the recovery process. Be sure to clarify any post-surgery instructions you receive to avoid confusion and ensure a smooth recovery.
Bonus:
| • |
Clean and Declutter Your Home: Coming home to a clean and uncluttered space can be incredibly soothing after surgery. Take some time to tidy up before your procedure so you can relax and focus on recovery in a comfortable environment. |
| • |
Download Entertainment: Downloading movies, TV shows, or audiobooks can help you stay entertained and comfortable during your recovery. |
| • |
Prepare Easy-to-Reach Meals and Snacks: Having easy-to-reach pre-made meals and snacks will prevent you from having to cook or exert yourself while recovering. |
By taking these steps and following your doctor's instructions carefully, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery from your oral surgery. Remember, proper preparation is key to minimizing stress and maximizing your well-being throughout the process. |
|
