While oral surgery may not be as extensive as other types of medical surgeries, it is still an invasive procedure. Before your surgery date, you will be given an information form to fill out that will ask you about your family history of diseases, personal medical history,  current medications, and lifestyle habits. Be sure to discuss the following with your oral surgeon prior to your procedure date. 

Dietary Supplement Use

Certain dietary supplements can increase your risk for complications during your surgery and while you recover. For example, both fish oil and garlic supplements can increase bleeding risk. These supplements may decrease blood clotting, which may be problematic if you are having surgery. The bleeding risk associated with fish oil and garlic supplements may be further compounded if you take aspirin or prescription blood thinners.

Your oral surgeon may advise you to stop taking your supplements a week or so before your scheduled surgery date. It may take this long, or longer, before your clotting action returns to normal. It may also be necessary to stop taking your prescription blood-thinning medication before your surgery. Never stop taking them, however, without talking to your physician. 

Dental Phobia

If you have a dental phobia, it is essential that you let your oral surgeon know. While most people understand that their fear is irrational and unwarranted, they are unable to do anything to prevent it. There are a number of effective interventions your dentist can suggest to keep you anxiety-free and calm during your procedure. If the fear of pain is causing your anxiety, you can be sure that you will not feel any discomfort during your surgery.

You may also become anxious at the thought of losing control during your surgery. If you are awake during your procedure, your dentist will tell you to simply raise your hand if you become anxious and want them to stop for a moment so that you can regain your composure.

Your oral surgeon may also give you a sedative before your surgery to help you relax. If you are having extensive or complicated oral surgery, you may have general anesthesia, which means that you will sleep through the entire procedure. The dental staff will monitor your condition every step of the way so that if you become anxious before, during, or after your surgery, they will quickly intervene. 

Before your dental surgery, talk to your surgeon about your dietary supplement use and your dental phobia. When your dentist knows as much as possible about your personal situation, you are more likely to enjoy an event-free experience.

For more information about oral surgery, contact a clinic like Center For Oral & Facial Surgery of Memphis PLLC.