The Ultimate Oral Surgery Prep Checklist: How to Set Up Your Home for a Smooth Recovery

At Cannon Oral Surgery, we think about surgery every single day. But we also understand that for our patients in Chattanooga, Tennessee, who are getting ready for their procedure, oral surgery is an unusual event, and one that can bring stress. 

We want to do everything we can to make your oral surgery experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. To that end, we’re here today to share some tips on how to prepare your home for your upcoming recovery. 

Don’t wait to fill any prescriptions

If Dr. Cannon prescribes any medication before your oral surgery, be sure to fill it before the last minute. Examples of medications you might need include antibiotics, pain medications, and antibacterial mouthwash. 

Having these on hand before your procedure means you’ll have them when you need them. If you’re prescribed antibiotics, take the full course as directed, since stopping early can increase your risk of a serious infection. 

If you’re currently taking other medication for a chronic health condition or any other issue, be sure to let Dr. Cannon know. Some drugs simply don’t play well together, and we want to make sure you get the benefits you need without risking a negative drug interaction. 

Make a healthy and fun meal plan

In the days after your oral surgery, you’ll need to choose softer foods to avoid placing any undue pressure on your surgical site. Think about which foods you enjoy that are on the softer side, and stock up before your procedure. 

Having some home-cooked, nourishing soup in the freezer makes it easy to heat up a great meal. Stuffed baked potatoes are also a good choice, especially now that the weather is turning cooler. 

Eating healthy foods that provide the micronutrients your body needs to heal is important. Protein is especially important for healing. Fortunately, many great options are either naturally rich in protein or have added protein. Yogurt is a wonderful example. 

Of course, if you don’t have any dietary restrictions, ice cream is always a nice treat when you’re recovering from oral surgery.

Build a comfy recovery “nest”

Your body needs time to heal after any form of surgery, including oral surgery. So take time to set up a comfortable space at home to settle into after your procedure. Consider using this time to finish that book you’ve been wanting to get to, or binge a show that’s been on your list. 

Life can be hectic, but resting and recharging after your oral surgery should be a top priority. If you have work or family obligations, see if you can complete tasks before your visit or find someone you trust to help you for a few days. 

As for the day of your visit, there’s no need to feel like you have to dress up for your appointment. We encourage you to choose clothing that is comfortable enough that you won’t want to change when you get back home. We want you to ease right into the rest you need to heal. 

Keep in mind that if you’re having anesthesia during your procedure, many people feel colder than normal when the effects begin to wear off, so layers are always a good idea, no matter the season. 

We hope these tips help as you get closer to your oral surgery appointment. If you have any questions about your procedure or the recovery process, we’re here to help. You can book a visit at Cannon Oral Surgery online or over the phone in just moments.