Although oral surgery might sound scary, you have nothing to fear at Rod Gleave, DMD in Salt Lake City.
Dr. Gleave and our team perform oral surgery to keep our patients’ smiles healthy, so it’s become quite routine.
But still, it will ease your mind going into your procedure if you follow today’s simple steps for a smooth surgery, comfortable recovery, and an overall more positive experience.

Steps For A Smooth Oral Surgery

Before you come to our Salt Lake City dental office for your procedure, there are things you can do to make the process go as smoothly as possible:
*Make Sure Your Clothes Are Comfy But Not Loose
You’ll want to dress comfortably for your oral surgery, but make sure your clothes aren’t too loose. That’s because you’ll have Dr. Gleave and other members of our team in the operatory who could have trouble moving freely if your shirt or jacket is dangling off the chair creating a potential hazard.
*Remove Jewelry & MakeUp Before Surgery
Jewelry and makeup aren’t necessary if you’re having oral surgery, or any surgery for that matter. Sure, there’s a sanitation issue with this, but these can also create potential snags while you’re undergoing surgery.
Makeup could rub off on clothes, and rings, nose piercings, or necklaces can get caught on our teams’ clothes and interfere with their process. It’s best to arrive with a clean face and without any jewelry.
*Give Yourself Time To Ask Questions About Pre-Op Instructions
We will give you some instructions to follow prior to your oral surgery. It’s not a good idea to wait until the last minute to read them because you might not have time to ask questions or modify your preparations before your appointment.
Read and understand your pre-op instructions, and be sure to call us if you have questions.
*Avoid Eating At Least 8 Hours Prior To Your Procedure
Everyone’s oral surgery will differ, so you’ll need to check with Dr. Gleave about when you should stop eating or drinking prior to your appointment.
Typically, we tell patients to not eat or drink anything at least 8 hours before surgery. In some cases, you may be able to sip a little water, but again, you can discuss your individual needs beforehand with Dr. Gleave.

Steps For A Smooth Recovery

Dr. Gleave has decades of experience performing oral surgery to save patients’ smiles. He and our Salt Lake City team have the skills and tools to make you comfortable during your procedure and your post-op healing faster.
But there are also ways you can prepare your home for a smoother recovery after your oral surgery:
*Stock Up On Freezer Packs / Cold Compresses
You might have some prescription pain meds to help ease any discomfort after your surgery. Along with that, it’s a good idea to plan for possible swelling during recovery.
Keep freezer packs and cold compresses on hand so you don’t have to be on your feet searching your house for a rag or ice instead of resting.
*Put Soft Foods On Your Grocery List
You should make sure to add bland, soft foods to your grocery list before your oral surgery. Although you may not be in a lot of pain after your procedure, you’re probably not going to be healed enough to handle harder, spicier foods for a few days. Make recovery more comfortable by stocking up on foods that are easier to eat.
*Set Aside Entertainment Options 
You’re probably going to need rest in the day or two after your oral surgery, which means you’ll want to arrange your recovery space ahead of time. This will help you avoid being up and walking around searching for ways to entertain yourself.
Set up an entertainment system near your couch or bed stocked with books, magazines, movies, games, crossword puzzles, and whatever chargers you might need for your phone or iPad. Doing this early will maximize your comfort and enjoyment during your recovery.
*Post-Op Instructions: Read, Ask, Understand
Just like with instructions you’re given before your procedure, it’s equally important to make sure you’ve read and understand your recovery guidelines.
Since you might need to take OTC or prescription pain relievers post-op, it’s beneficial to read everything ahead of time and ask us any questions before your oral surgery.

Call To Schedule Your Oral Surgery!

We know the anticipation of oral surgery can make many patients feel pretty anxious. But choosing Dr. Gleave and our team in Salt Lake City will soon alleviate any misgivings or fears you might have as your surgery date approaches.
With today’s easy steps for pre and post-op preparations, you’re already on your way to a smoother experience with your oral surgery and recovery.
Along with that, you have a warm, caring, and capable team of highly-trained professionals committed to your comfort and your oral health.
Don’t fear oral surgery! Trust Rod Gleave, DMD in Salt Lake City, UT and call (801) 948-2143 or fill out our online form to schedule your procedure.