Posted on 6/15/2024 by Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
The most common reason for surgery is to extract impacted wisdom teeth. Oral surgery can also be performed to remove bacteria hiding beneath gums or to add volume to receded gums. If you are going in for oral surgery, there are a few preparations regarding what to eat and not to eat before.
Eating Before Oral Surgery
Food and drink ingested before oral surgery can significantly affect the way your body interacts with local or general anesthesia. It is crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure your safety during the procedure. Unless you are diabetic, it is advisable to avoid food or drinks 12 hours before surgery. If you are taking any medications, you are allowed to continue taking them but with a small sip of water.
Eating Before a Minor Oral Surgery
It is safer not to eat or drink anything before your scheduled oral surgery. This is because food and drink in your stomach can increase the risk of complications during anesthesia. For example, if your surgical appointment is to take place very early in the morning, you can avoid eating and drinking by midnight the night before.
However, if your oral surgery will have you sedated but conscious, you could take a light snack a few hours before your surgery. A light snack means something simple like a small portion of yogurt or a piece of fruit. Avoid spicy foods or any other foods that could upset your stomach.
Eating Before an Intravenous IV
An intravenous IV delivers the heaviest level of sedation. It is often used in oral surgery procedures, and it can leave you unaware of your surroundings. It is recommended that you have an empty stomach before this procedure.
Remember, your oral surgeon is your best resource for understanding your specific dietary needs before your surgery. They can advise you on what to eat and avoid and explain how eating beforehand might affect the procedure. Do not hesitate to reach out to our office with any questions or concerns.
Dental Blog | Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Allentown, PA Check out the dental blog that Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Allentown, PA put together to educate our patients. Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 1251 S Cedar Crest Blvd #311, Allentown, PA 18103, (610) 435-6161, lehighoms.com, 10/8/2024, Page Terms:oral surgeon Allentown PA,
The most common reason for surgery is to extract impacted wisdom teeth. Oral surgery can also be performed to remove bacteria hiding beneath gums or to add volume to receded gums. If you are going in for oral surgery, there are a few preparations regarding what to eat and not to eat before.