Getting ready for oral surgery can feel like a lot—appointments, instructions, medication questions, and the classic “What am I allowed to eat?” spiral. The good news is that most of the stress comes from uncertainty, not the surgery itself. With a clear plan, you can walk into your procedure feeling organized, calm, and confident that you’ve covered the details that matter.
This step-by-step checklist is designed to help you prepare for common procedures like wisdom tooth removal, bone grafting, biopsies, exposure of impacted teeth, and other treatments handled by oral surgery teams. Preparation isn’t just about the day of surgery, either. The best outcomes usually come from what you do in the days and weeks beforehand—setting up your home, planning time off, and making sure you understand the instructions that apply to your specific case.
One quick note: every clinic has its own protocols, and your surgeon’s instructions always come first. Use this guide as a practical framework, then tailor it to your treatment plan and any medical conditions you may have.
Start with the basics: understand what’s being done and why
Before you buy supplies or rearrange your schedule, make sure you can explain your procedure in plain language. What exactly is being treated? Is the goal to remove a problem (like an infected tooth), rebuild support (like a bone graft), or prepare for a future step (like implant placement)? When you understand the “why,” the instructions make more sense—and you’re less likely to miss something important.
If your treatment is being handled by a specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery, you may notice the planning is more detailed than a routine dental visit. That’s normal. These procedures often involve sedation options, more advanced imaging, and careful coordination with your dentist, orthodontist, or physician.
Bring a notebook or use your phone notes during consults. Write down the procedure name, the expected duration, the type of anesthesia/sedation, and what the first week of recovery might look like. Small details—like whether you’ll have stitches, if they dissolve, and when you’ll return for a check—can shape how you plan your life around recovery.
Two to four weeks before: set yourself up for a smoother recovery
Book the right time off (and protect your calendar)
Many patients underestimate recovery time because the procedure itself can be quick. But swelling, fatigue, and medication schedules can make it tough to jump right back into work, school, or caregiving. Ask your surgeon what a realistic recovery window looks like for your specific procedure.
If your job is physically demanding, you may need longer restrictions than someone who works at a desk. Even for desk work, it’s wise to keep the first 24–48 hours clear if sedation is involved. If you can, plan your procedure for a day that gives you a buffer—like a Thursday or Friday—so you have weekend time to rest without feeling rushed.
Also think about social commitments. It’s not just about pain; you may have swelling or bruising that makes you self-conscious. Give yourself permission to keep things low-key for a bit.
Review medications, supplements, and health conditions with your clinic
This is a big one. Some medications and supplements can increase bleeding risk or interact with sedation. Common examples include blood thinners, certain anti-inflammatory medications, and supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, or herbal products. Don’t stop anything on your own—just provide a complete list and follow your surgeon’s guidance.
If you have diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, heart conditions, or a history of complications with anesthesia, bring it up early. These details don’t necessarily prevent surgery, but they may change how your team plans sedation, monitoring, or post-op medications.
If you’ve had allergic reactions to antibiotics or pain medications in the past, be specific about the drug name and the reaction you experienced. “I felt weird” is less helpful than “I got hives and trouble breathing.”
Build your “recovery zone” at home
Think of the first couple of days after surgery as a time when you’ll want things within arm’s reach. Set up a comfortable spot with extra pillows (you’ll likely be advised to keep your head elevated), a blanket, charging cables, and entertainment that doesn’t require much effort.
Stock your bathroom with gentle supplies: a soft toothbrush, alcohol-free mouth rinse if recommended, and any prescribed oral rinse. If you’re told to do saltwater rinses, have salt ready and a clean cup or mixing container.
If you have kids or pets, plan for support. The first day especially is not ideal for heavy lifting, chasing toddlers, or long dog walks. Even if you feel “fine,” your body is using energy to heal.
One week before: lock in the details that patients often miss
Confirm transportation and aftercare support
If you’re receiving sedation (even light sedation), you’ll need a responsible adult to bring you to the appointment, stay nearby, and take you home. Many clinics won’t proceed without a confirmed escort, and rideshare services often don’t qualify unless a support person is with you.
Plan for someone to stay with you for at least the first few hours afterward. You may be groggy, unsteady, or forgetful. Having someone around is also helpful if you need to start medications on schedule or if unexpected bleeding concerns you.
Write down your support person’s phone number and the clinic’s after-hours contact instructions. It’s surprisingly easy to misplace information when you’re tired or medicated.
Plan your food like you’re packing for a mini “soft diet retreat”
Food planning is where recovery can either feel easy or frustrating. For the first few days, you’ll likely want soft, cool, and easy-to-swallow options. Think yogurt, applesauce, smoothies (no straw if advised), mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soup (cooled), and protein shakes.
Try to include protein and calories, not just “snack foods.” Your body needs building blocks to heal. If you tend to lose your appetite when stressed, pick a few go-to options you can tolerate even when you don’t feel like eating.
Avoid foods with seeds, small grains, or sharp edges if your surgeon warns they can irritate the surgical area. And if you’re having extractions, remember that chewing may be awkward for a while—plan foods that don’t require much jaw work.
Get clear on smoking, vaping, alcohol, and cannabis rules
This topic can feel uncomfortable, but it’s important. Smoking and vaping are strongly linked to delayed healing and complications like dry socket after extractions. Alcohol can also interfere with medications and increase bleeding risk in some situations.
Cannabis use is especially important to disclose if you’ll be sedated. It can affect anesthesia needs and recovery. Your clinic isn’t there to judge; they’re trying to keep you safe. Be honest about frequency and form (smoked, vaped, edibles).
If quitting feels hard, ask your provider for a short-term plan. Even a brief pause around surgery can make a meaningful difference in healing.
Two to three days before: gather supplies and reduce friction
Make a simple post-op supply kit
You don’t need a pharmacy aisle worth of products, but a few basics help. Many clinics provide gauze and instructions, but it’s still smart to have extras. An ice pack (or two) is helpful for swelling management in the first 24–48 hours.
Have acetaminophen/ibuprofen only if your surgeon approves and gives you a schedule. Don’t assume over-the-counter means “always safe” for your situation. If you’re prescribed pain medication, plan to pick it up ahead of time if possible so you’re not running errands right after surgery.
Consider a small notepad to track medication timing. When you’re tired, it’s easy to forget whether you took a dose. A simple log can prevent accidental double-dosing or missed doses that lead to breakthrough pain.
Handle practicalities: laundry, errands, and a clean kitchen
This sounds basic, but it’s one of the best “future you” gifts. Do laundry, tidy your recovery area, and make sure you have clean towels and pillowcases. Swelling and drooling can happen, and you’ll feel better with fresh linens.
Run errands early: groceries, prescriptions, and any household needs. The goal is to avoid “I have to do this today” pressure when you should be resting.
If you live alone, consider preparing a few soft meals in advance. Even reheating can feel like a lot on day one, especially if you’re dizzy or sore.
The day before: follow pre-op instructions like a checklist, not a vibe
Confirm fasting rules and medication timing
If you’re having IV sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll likely be told not to eat or drink after a certain time. Fasting rules can vary, so follow your clinic’s instructions exactly. Eating too close to sedation can be dangerous, and your procedure may be postponed for safety.
Ask about morning medications. Some prescriptions should be taken with a small sip of water; others may need to be held. If you’re unsure, call the clinic—don’t guess.
Set alarms for the morning if needed, especially if your appointment is early. Rushing increases stress, and stress can spike blood pressure and make the whole experience feel harder than it needs to.
Choose comfortable clothing and plan for swelling
Wear something loose and comfortable. If you’ll have IV sedation, short sleeves make it easier to place monitors and an IV. Skip jewelry and keep accessories minimal.
It’s also a good time to think about facial swelling. If you have an important event soon, talk to your surgeon about how long swelling might last. Bruising can happen too, depending on the procedure and your body.
If you’re someone who likes to feel “put together,” set aside a few easy options for the next couple of days—soft tops, cozy layers, and anything that doesn’t require bending over or fussing.
Day-of checklist: what to do before you leave home
Brush gently, skip anything you were told to avoid
Good oral hygiene matters, but you don’t want to irritate tissues right before surgery. Brush gently and avoid aggressive rinsing if your clinic advised against it.
Don’t wear heavy makeup or facial products if monitors or tape will be placed on your face. Keep lips moisturized with a simple balm—your mouth may be open for a while during the procedure.
If you’re prone to anxiety, try a simple grounding routine: slow breathing, a short walk, or calming music. It won’t erase nerves, but it can keep them from taking over.
Bring the essentials (and leave the rest)
Bring your ID, insurance information if relevant, and a list of medications. If you have a mouthguard or orthodontic appliances and were told to bring them, add those too.
Leave valuables at home. You won’t want to keep track of extra items while you’re checking in and recovering.
If you’re having sedation, your escort should know where to park, how long the appointment might take, and how they’ll be contacted when you’re ready to go.
Right after surgery: the first few hours that shape your recovery
Bleeding control, rest, and keeping your head elevated
Some oozing is normal after many oral surgery procedures. Your clinic will likely place gauze and show you how to change it. Follow the timing instructions and avoid constantly “checking” the site, which can disturb clot formation.
Rest is not optional. Even if you feel okay, your body has been through a procedure and possibly sedation. Keep your head elevated and avoid heavy activity.
Use ice packs if recommended, usually in short intervals. The goal is to manage swelling early, which can help you feel more comfortable over the next couple of days.
Medication timing: stay ahead of pain (safely)
For many patients, pain is easier to manage when you stay on the schedule provided rather than waiting until it becomes intense. If your surgeon gave you a staggered plan (for example, alternating approved medications), write it down and stick to it.
If you’re prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as directed and finish the course unless your prescriber tells you otherwise. Don’t save leftovers “just in case.”
Avoid mixing medications with alcohol, and don’t drive while taking sedating pain meds. If you’re unsure about interactions, call the clinic or your pharmacist.
The first week: healing habits that reduce complications
Oral hygiene without disrupting healing
Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent infection, but the key is gentle technique. Many surgeons recommend avoiding vigorous rinsing for the first day, then starting careful saltwater rinses after meals. Follow your specific instructions.
Brush your other teeth normally but be cautious around the surgical area. If you had stitches, treat them like delicate fabric—don’t poke or tug at them.
If you were told to avoid straws, spitting forcefully, or smoking, take that seriously. These actions can create suction that disrupts clot formation and increases the risk of dry socket or delayed healing.
Swelling and bruising: what’s normal and what’s not
Swelling often peaks around day two or three, then gradually improves. Bruising can show up later and move downward due to gravity. This can look dramatic but still be normal.
Call your clinic if swelling is rapidly worsening after initially improving, if you develop a fever, if you have foul taste with increasing pain, or if you can’t manage bleeding with the provided instructions.
Hydration helps more than people expect. Sip water regularly (as allowed), and aim for nourishing soft foods so your body has the energy to heal.
When surgery is part of a bigger plan: implants, bone support, and staged care
Why bone structure matters for long-term results
Not all oral surgery is “one and done.” Sometimes the procedure is a step toward a long-term goal like restoring chewing function or preparing for dental implants. In those cases, your surgeon may talk about bone volume, gum health, and how your bite forces will be supported over time.
If you’ve been told you need ridge augmentation for implants, it usually means the jawbone needs more width or height to properly support an implant. That can sound intimidating, but it’s a common approach and often the difference between an implant that’s stable long-term and one that’s placed with compromises.
Preparation for these staged procedures includes being extra mindful about nutrition, smoking cessation, and follow-up visits. Bone healing is slower than soft-tissue healing, so patience and consistency matter.
Questions to ask if you’re planning future restorative work
Ask how your surgical site will be protected during healing and what signs suggest things are progressing well. If you’re wearing a temporary denture or retainer, confirm whether it needs adjustment so it doesn’t press on the surgical area.
Talk about timelines: when you can expect the next step, when imaging will be repeated, and what might cause delays. It’s easier to plan life around treatment when you know the “range” rather than a single date.
Finally, ask what you can do to support predictable healing—sleep, protein intake, and avoiding nicotine are common themes, but your surgeon may have procedure-specific tips.
Comfort and confidence: the “extra” things that still matter
Managing appearance-related worries without adding pressure
Even when surgery is medically necessary, it’s normal to care about how you’ll look during recovery. Swelling, bruising, and limited mouth opening can affect how you feel in public or on video calls.
If you’re already someone who invests in skincare or appearance, you might wonder what’s safe around the time of surgery. In general, avoid aggressive treatments right before and after surgery unless your provider says otherwise. If you’re curious about gentle options that complement a confident look over time, some clinics also offer cosmetic facial treatments that can be discussed separately from your surgical plan—just keep the timing sensible so healing stays the priority.
The bigger point is this: you don’t have to pretend appearance doesn’t matter. You can care about healing well and feeling like yourself. Planning a little buffer time and keeping your schedule flexible is often the simplest solution.
Sleep, stress, and the underrated healing multipliers
Sleep is where your body does a lot of repair work. For the first few nights, you may need extra pillows to stay elevated. If you’re a side sleeper, you might need to adjust to avoid pressure on swollen areas.
Stress can amplify pain perception and make recovery feel harder. Keep your environment calm, ask for help when you need it, and try not to over-monitor every sensation. Some tenderness, tightness, and mild asymmetry are common during healing.
If anxiety is high, talk to your clinic before the procedure day. They may have practical options—like explaining the steps more clearly, adjusting sedation plans, or helping you understand what sensations are normal afterward.
Red flags and reassurance: knowing when to call
Symptoms that deserve a quick check-in
It’s always better to call and be told “that’s normal” than to wait and worry. Contact your clinic if bleeding won’t slow after following instructions, if pain suddenly spikes a few days after extraction, or if you notice increasing swelling after initial improvement.
Numbness that doesn’t gradually improve, difficulty breathing or swallowing, rash/hives after medication, or fever should be addressed promptly. These are not things to “sleep off.”
Keep your clinic’s after-hours number accessible. Save it in your phone before surgery so you’re not searching while uncomfortable.
What normal healing can look like (even if it’s weird)
Healing isn’t always pretty. You might see white or yellow tissue in the area, which can be normal healing tissue rather than infection. You might have jaw stiffness, mild earache-like sensations, or a sore throat from keeping your mouth open during the procedure.
Energy levels can dip for a few days, especially if you’re not eating much. That doesn’t mean something is wrong—it may just mean your body needs more rest and better calorie intake.
If you’re unsure, take a clear photo (if you can do so gently) and call the clinic. Many teams can help you triage whether you need to come in.
A printable-style step-by-step checklist you can copy into your notes
Preparation timeline at a glance
2–4 weeks before: confirm the procedure plan, ask about sedation, review medications/supplements, plan time off, and set up home support.
1 week before: confirm escort/transportation, shop for soft foods, clarify smoking/vaping/alcohol rules, and finalize your recovery space.
2–3 days before: pick up prescriptions, gather gauze/ice packs, tidy your home, and prep easy meals.
Day before: follow fasting instructions, confirm morning medication rules, set alarms, and choose comfortable clothing.
Day of: brush gently, bring ID/med list, arrive early, and let your support person handle logistics.
First-week reminders
Take medications exactly as prescribed, hydrate often, eat soft protein-rich foods, and follow oral hygiene instructions without aggressive rinsing.
Avoid straws, smoking/vaping, and heavy activity if instructed. Use ice early if recommended, then switch to warmth later only if your clinic suggests it.
Call the clinic if you have uncontrolled bleeding, worsening swelling after improvement, fever, allergic reactions, or a sudden spike in pain a few days after extraction.
