Oral surgery is a precise process, and what you do in the days and hours leading up to your procedure matters just as much as the surgery itself. Patients who arrive well-prepared tend to experience smoother procedures, fewer complications, and more comfortable recoveries. Whether you are scheduled for a tooth extraction, dental implant placement, bone grafting, or another procedure, taking the time to follow pre-operative instructions carefully sets the foundation for the best possible outcome. After your procedure, you can follow our post-surgical care instructions.
At Legacy Oral Surgery Group, we believe your care begins the moment you schedule your appointment. Our team, led by Dr. Nancy Herbst, who brings more than 25 years of experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, will walk you through everything you need to know before your surgery date. With over 35 years of combined professional experience and more than 7,000 patients treated annually across our Union City, Elizabeth, and Staten Island locations, we are committed to making sure you feel informed and at ease before you ever step into our surgical suite.
What Should You Do Before Oral Surgery?
Preparation before oral surgery involves several areas, from diet and medications to transportation and clothing. Each of these elements plays a role in helping our team keep you safe and comfortable throughout your procedure.
Fasting and Food Restrictions
If your procedure involves IV sedation or general anesthesia, fasting beforehand is required. According to current clinical guidelines published in PubMed Central, international standards recommend fasting for at least six hours from solid foods and a minimum of two hours from clear liquids before undergoing anesthesia. These fasting periods exist to reduce the risk of aspiration, which occurs when stomach contents enter the lungs during sedation.
We will provide you with specific fasting instructions at your pre-operative appointment based on your scheduled procedure time and anesthesia type. Do not eat, drink, chew gum, or use tobacco products within the timeframe we give you. If you are unsure whether a specific beverage or food item is permitted, contact our office rather than guessing. Arriving to surgery without following fasting instructions may require us to postpone your procedure for your safety.
Medications and Medical History
Before your surgery, give our team a complete and current list of all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements you take. Certain medications, including blood thinners, aspirin, and some herbal supplements, may need to be paused before surgery. We will coordinate directly with your prescribing physician when needed to make these decisions safely.
If you have any of the following, be sure to let us know well in advance:
- Diabetes, heart conditions, or bleeding disorders
- A history of reactions to anesthesia or sedation
- Any recent illness, cold, or fever
- Allergies to any medications, latex, or materials
Do not adjust or discontinue any medication without speaking with our team first. We will provide clear guidance based on your specific health history and the procedure planned.
How Should You Prepare the Day Before Surgery?
The day before your procedure, get a full night of rest. Fatigue can heighten anxiety and make recovery more difficult. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your surgery, as alcohol can interact with anesthesia and slow healing.
Confirm your transportation for the day of your procedure. If you will be receiving sedation or general anesthesia, you will not be permitted to drive yourself home. Plan for a responsible adult to accompany you and remain available to bring you home and stay with you for several hours after your procedure.
What to Wear and Bring
On the day of surgery, dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothing with short sleeves or sleeves that can be easily rolled up. Avoid wearing nail polish, jewelry, contact lenses, or hairpins, as these can interfere with monitoring equipment or safety protocols during sedation. Leave valuables at home.
Bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, and any paperwork our office has asked you to complete. If you have not yet submitted your patient forms, you can find them through our patient resources page. Arriving with your forms already completed allows us to dedicate our time to your care rather than administrative tasks.
What Happens If You Have a Cold or Feel Unwell Before Surgery?
If you develop a cold, fever, or any signs of illness in the days before your scheduled procedure, contact our office as soon as possible. Proceeding with surgery while sick can increase risk, particularly when anesthesia is involved. In many cases, we will reschedule your procedure to a date when you are feeling your best.
If you are experiencing an urgent issue related to your oral health, our team is here to help. We handle emergency oral surgery situations and will assess the safest course of action based on your condition.
Special Considerations for Pediatric Patients
If your child is having surgery with us, the same principles apply, though specific fasting durations and preparation steps may differ based on age and procedure type. Our team is experienced in caring for patients of all ages, from pediatric cases to elderly adults. We will go over all age-appropriate instructions with you directly so you know exactly what to expect.
What Should You Avoid in the Days Leading Up to Surgery?
In the days before your procedure, avoid smoking and tobacco use entirely. Smoking interferes with blood flow, slows healing, and raises the risk of dry socket after extractions. If possible, reduce or eliminate tobacco use well before your procedure date.
Limit intense physical activity the day before surgery. Strenuous exercise raises heart rate and can affect how your body responds to anesthesia. Light walking is fine, but hold off on demanding workouts.
If you are scheduled for a procedure that involves sedation, do not take any new supplements, vitamins, or herbal products without consulting our team first. Some supplements, including fish oil, vitamin E, and St. John’s Wort, can increase bleeding risk.
Ready to Schedule or Have Questions About Oral Surgery? Contact Legacy Oral Surgery
Preparing for oral surgery does not need to feel overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through each step, answer every question, and make sure you walk into your procedure feeling confident and ready. Dr. Nancy Herbst and our providers, Dr. David Farkas and Dr. Hillel Kaye, bring decades of combined experience to every patient interaction, ensuring your preparation is just as thorough as the procedure itself.
When you are ready to move forward, we encourage you to learn more about Dr. Herbst and our providers to understand the level of care you will receive. To ask specific questions about your upcoming procedure or confirm your pre-operative instructions, please contact our office, and a member of our team will gladly assist
