Skip to main content

What to Expect During Oral Surgery: Anesthesia, Comfort, and Recovery

What to Expect During Oral Surgery: Anesthesia, Comfort, and Recovery

If you need a dental procedure to restore your smile, you might feel a bit nervous about what lies ahead. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference in helping you feel calm and prepared. 

At Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi in Flowood, Mississippi, we prioritize your peace of mind from the moment you walk through our doors.

Our board-certified surgeon, Michael R. Nichols, DMD, MD, specializes in safe, comfortable oral surgery. Whether you need wisdom teeth removed or dental implants placed, we're here to guide you through every step of the process.

 

Understanding your anesthesia options

Many patients feel anxious before a procedure, often worrying about pain or the anesthesia itself. We offer several options to keep you completely comfortable, from local numbing to IV sedation.

Your safety is always our top priority. Outpatient facilities such as ours that administer anesthesia undergo rigorous evaluations every five years to ensure the highest standards of safety and emergency readiness.

Dr. Nichols discusses your options during your consultation to determine the best fit for your needs. 

What happens on the day of your surgery?

On the day of your appointment, we make sure you're settled comfortably in our treatment room before we begin. If you receive sedation, we monitor your vital signs closely throughout the procedure.

Most procedures are surprisingly quick, and you won't feel any pain while the anesthesia is active. Once the surgery is complete, we let you rest in our recovery area until you're ready to head home with your designated driver.

Tips for a smooth and comfortable recovery

Your recovery starts the moment your surgery ends. Managing your comfort at home is much easier when you follow a few simple guidelines and take your medications as directed.

For managing post-operative dental pain, we recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen alongside acetaminophen as a highly effective first-line therapy. This combination often provides relief without the need for stronger prescription medications.

We also recommend resting with your head elevated, applying ice packs to your jaw to reduce swelling, and sticking to soft foods such as yogurt and applesauce. Avoid using straws, as the suction can disrupt your healing.

We're committed to making your surgical experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you have questions about an upcoming procedure or want to discuss your oral surgery options, contact our team at Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi today to schedule a consultation.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Your Prep List for Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Your Prep List for Wisdom Teeth Extraction

When you’re preparing to have your wisdom teeth removed, it seems like everyone you know suddenly has a story about how difficult their experience was. Here’s a prep list to help you make your procedure as smooth as possible.
The Ultimate Guide to Refreshing Your Eyes

The Ultimate Guide to Refreshing Your Eyes

Do you have tired-looking eyes? Sometimes, no matter how well rested you are, you look in the mirror and see weary eyes looking back. Take action and refresh your eyes. Here’s how. 
When to Consider Surgery for Chronic TMJ Pain

When to Consider Surgery for Chronic TMJ Pain

You probably don’t think about your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) often — unless you have a TMJ disorder. If you’re dealing with chronic TMJ pain, surgery is sometimes the best option.