Pre-Surgical Instructions

Please wear loose-fitting clothing with short sleeves. It is best to leave jewelry at home, including all piercing jewelry on the face, lips and mouth. To prevent infection, please brush your teeth thoroughly just prior to your appointment.

Take all your prescribed medications at your normal schedule unless we have specifically instructed you otherwise. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to surgery. It is best not to smoke for several weeks prior to surgery, as smoking can greatly increase healing problems. Notify us if you have had a change in your health or began any new medication or recreational drug prior to your surgery.

Take 600 mg of ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) the night before surgery. Do not take this medication if your physician has advised you to avoid ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal medications.

If your treatment includes implant surgery or bone grafting, start using the Chlorhexidine (Peridex) mouth rinse 2 weeks prior to your surgery. Make every effort to carry out thorough brushing and flossing during this time. Take the first dose of your antibiotic tablets with a sip of water one hour before your surgery.

If sedation is planned, do not consume any food or drink for at least 8 hours prior to your surgery, not even water. If your medications require a morning dose, it is okay to take them with just a sip of water.

A responsible adult must accompany you to your appointment, register with you at check-in, remain here during your procedure and drive you home. Please do not bring children to wait during the surgery, as most appointments are at least 90 minutes. After surgery, there should be an adult available to assist you that day in your postoperative care at home.

Since we arrange our staffing to accommodate the appointment you have made, please notify our office if you will be unable to keep that appointment so that we may utilize that time to provide treatment to other patients. There are charges for failed appointments or short notice cancellations. We generally call to reconfirm your appointment 2-3 days prior. Appointments can be rescheduled or cancelled by speaking to one of our receptionists, but not by phone message or e-mail.

Click here to download a PDF version.