Evaluation and treatment plan
Before your oral surgery is even scheduled, the oral surgeon (or specialist performing the surgery) will take dental x-rays and scans to evaluate the structure of your mouth and jaw, including the nerves, jawbone, and tooth roots. They will also do a thorough exam of your mouth to assess your oral health and condition. With this information, they will develop a treatment plan.
Procedure prep and sedation
Oral surgery typically requires some kind of sedation, although many procedures can be performed right in your dentist’s office. Depending on the type and extent of the oral surgery, you may be given oral medications, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), intravenous moderate or deep sedation, or a combination of several types. If your oral surgery is performed in a hospital setting, you may receive general anesthesia.
Recovery
Once the procedure is complete, you will be allowed to recover for a short time in the office to make sure there have been no complications. You or a loved one will also be given post-operative instructions that detail how to care for your mouth and help it heal safely, quickly, and effectively. If you have received any sedation other than nitrous oxide, you will likely need someone to drive you home. You will also have follow-up appointments to make sure everything is healing properly.