Dental Operations: What to Know Before You Begin
Dental procedures can be a strong solution for anyone who needs advanced treatment. With proper preparation and aftercare, they can restore your oral health and improve your daily comfort. If you are planning dental surgery, it helps to understand what to expect and how to get ready.
Before Your Operation
Your First Steps
You will speak with your health consultant before your procedure to:
- Review your dental history
- Discuss any concerns
- Share x-rays or photos, as requested by your representative
If X-rays are not provided in advance, only a general plan can be created. This plan may change once full imaging is completed at the clinic.
Anesthesia Overview
- General anesthesia is available for implant surgeries only and requires approval from the anesthesiologist.
- You must notify your consultant before you arrive if you want general anesthesia so hospital tests can be arranged.
- General anesthesia is not used for crowns or similar treatments.
How to Prepare
To help your surgery go smoothly:
- Wear comfortable clothing, ideally a sleeveless or short-sleeved top.
- Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and watches.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours beforehand.
- Brush and rinse thoroughly before the procedure.
- Use the restroom about 30 minutes before surgery.
- Prepare cold packs and soft foods like yogurt or pudding for your recovery.
During Your Operation
Anesthesia During Treatment
Your dentist will choose the right anesthesia based on the procedure:
- Most treatments use local anesthesia.
- Implant surgery or complex cases may involve general anesthesia.
What the Procedure May Include
Your treatment may involve:
- Wisdom tooth extraction
- Gum surgery
- Dental implant placement
Procedure times vary depending on complexity. After treatment, your dentist will give you:
- Recovery instructions
- Prescriptions if needed
- A list of foods to avoid
- Guidance for oral hygiene care
After Your Operation
Healing takes time, and you may need to take it easy for a few days. Some swelling, mild soreness, and light bleeding are normal.
Post Operative Care
Follow these steps to support recovery:
- Control bleeding with damp gauze for about one hour. If it continues, use a damp tea bag for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Continue regular medications unless told otherwise. Antibiotics may affect birth control.
- Avoid alcohol for several days, especially if you are on medication.
- Use ice packs during the first 24 hours.
- After 48 hours, rinse gently with salt water.
- Maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing with care.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco for at least 72 hours.
- Rest and limit activity for the first one to two days.
- Keep your head elevated when lying down.
- Stick with soft, cool foods.
- Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed.
Follow Up Appointments
Your dentist will schedule follow-ups to check your healing. If you are getting crowns or veneers, expect more than one visit to achieve the final fit.
Choosing the Right Dental Care
If you are planning dental surgery, choosing an experienced and qualified dentist is important. Our team works with leading professionals worldwide and assists with everything from travel arrangements to local support during recovery.
Need Help or Have Questions?
If you want guidance, clarity, or help planning your dental treatment, contact our health consultant. They are ready to answer your questions and support you through every step of the process.