Stock Up Before Your Oral Surgery: Items You Will Want To Have On Hand After Your Surgical Dental Procedure

There are many different types of surgical dental procedures that can be performed. This includes wisdom tooth extraction, placing posts for implants, or procedures to correct your jaw alignment. Regardless of what type of oral surgery you are having done, you will likely feel groggy, tired and a bit sore after the procedure. These side effects may last for a few days, depending on the procedures being done, your age, your current health and your tolerance to anesthesia and pain. In most cases, you will not feel like running to the store should you need something immediately following oral surgery. As such, you should stock up on the items you will need before the procedure. Here are a few of the items you will want to have on hand. 

Medications

Following a surgical dental procedure, you may be given a prescription for antibiotics and/or pain killers. Many dentists are opting to write the prescription early, giving you time to fill it before your surgical procedure. If you are having a procedure done, ask your doctor if they can write prescriptions for medications you may need before the procedure. While you are filling the prescription, be sure to pick up an over-the-counter pain reliever to use in case you are not given a pain killer or for when you need something for the pain but not something as strong as a prescription pain pill. 

Ice Bag or Heat Compress

Following surgery, your surgeon may recommend that you use an ice bag or a heat compress to control the swelling you are experiencing. If you do not have a heat compress, now may be a great time to grab one.

Soft Foods and Liquids 

You will not want to chew after a dental procedure. As such, be sure to stock up on soft foods, including jello, applesauce, soup and pudding. While you are grocery shopping, make sure you have enough liquids on hand, including water, juice and 7-Up or ginger ale in case you feel a bit queasy after your procedure. 

Salt

The last item you will want to make sure you have on hand after an oral surgery procedure is salt. Most dentists ask you to rinse your mouth with warm salt water after eating and throughout the day to prevent infection. Pick up salt to ensure you have enough on hand for this rinse. 

When you are preparing for oral surgery, be sure to talk to your endodontist or dentist about what your after care needs may be. You may need other items that are not included on this list.