Pre-Operative Instructions
Preparing properly before your scheduled surgery can help make your experience more comfortable and support a smooth recovery. Please review the following instructions carefully, and contact our office if you have any questions or concerns before your procedure.
You should receive any medications prescribed for before or after your surgery along with your instructions. For convenience, have your prescriptions filled before your appointment unless they have already been sent to your preferred pharmacy. Please bring your medications with you on the day of your procedure when instructed.
Before surgery, your dental specialist may advise you to temporarily stop certain medications, including aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Motrin or Advil. Do not stop any prescription blood thinner or other medication without first receiving specific instructions from your dentist or physician. If you normally require antibiotic premedication, take it exactly as directed by your dental team.
Unless you have been given different instructions, eating a meal before your procedure may help you feel more comfortable during and after surgery. Our treatment rooms may be cool, so wearing warm and comfortable clothing is recommended. If permitted, you may also bring headphones or a personal music device to help you relax.
Follow-up appointments are an important part of your recovery. Your dental team may schedule post-operative visits during the first several weeks to monitor healing and evaluate your progress. Additional follow-up may be recommended several weeks later to assess tissue maturation and determine when you are ready for the next stage of treatment.
What is Endodontics?
Antibiotics
Please inform our office about any known allergies, sensitivities, or previous reactions to antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescribed only when your dental specialist determines that they are appropriate for your specific situation. If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it exactly as directed and complete the prescribed course unless your healthcare provider instructs you otherwise. Taking certain antibiotics with food may help reduce stomach upset. If you are taking medications such as oral contraceptives, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist whether your specific antibiotic can affect their effectiveness.
Sedation
If oral sedation has been recommended or selected for your procedure, you must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the appointment. Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform activities requiring full alertness while affected by the sedative. If you are given medication to take before your procedure, follow the prescribed dosage and timing carefully. Bring any remaining medication with you to your appointment if requested by our dental team.
Food Suggestions
Having appropriate foods available at home can make the first few days after surgery easier and more comfortable. Choose soft foods that require minimal chewing and follow any specific dietary instructions provided by your dental specialist. Some suitable options may include: Soups Pudding Applesauce Oatmeal Mashed potatoes Macaroni and cheese Yogurt Bananas Jell-O Pasta Smoothies or milkshakes Eggs Soft fish Cottage cheese Soft casseroles Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, sticky, or difficult to chew until your dental team confirms that they are safe to eat.
Signs you may need treatment
Upcoming Dental Surgery
Medications That
Need Adjustment
Need for Sedation or
Special Preparation
Questions About Surgery or Recovery
What to expect
1
Prepare
2
Treat
3
Recover
Common questions
Should I eat before my dental surgery?
Should I stop taking my medications before surgery?
Do I need someone to drive me home after sedation?
What foods should I have ready after surgery?
Soft foods such as yogurt, oatmeal, mashed potatoes, eggs, soups, pasta, applesauce, and smoothies are convenient options during the initial recovery period.