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Comfort and care instructions

Getting ready for your procedure in Herriman

Have a tooth removal, implant or other procedure coming up? A little planning can make the day go smoothly. Here is how to get ready.

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Why do pre-operative instructions matter?

The steps you take before a procedure help keep you safe and help you heal. They can affect how well sedation works, how much you bleed and how comfortable you feel after. Your dentist gives you instructions for your exact procedure, and those always come first.

  • Instructions differ by procedure and sedation type
  • Tell us about every medicine you take
  • Plan your ride and recovery time ahead

Who should read this

These tips are for anyone with a planned procedure, such as:

This page is a general guide. Follow the instructions your dentist gives you. If anything here differs from what your dentist told you, go with your dentist's instructions and call us with any questions.

How to prepare

A week or more before

  • Share your health history. Tell us about health conditions, allergies, pregnancy and every medicine, vitamin and supplement you take.
  • Ask about your medicines. Do not stop any medicine, including blood thinners, unless your dentist and your physician tell you to.
  • Ask about premedication. Some people with certain heart or joint conditions take an antibiotic before dental work. Ask if you are one of them.
  • Plan your recovery. Take time off work or school if your dentist suggests it.

The day before

  • Stock up on soft foods, like yogurt, soup, eggs and smoothies, plus ice packs.
  • Fill any prescriptions so they are ready at home.
  • Confirm your ride if you are having sedation.
  • If you smoke or vape, stop as early as you can. It helps healing.

The day of your procedure

  • Eating and drinking. Follow the exact directions you were given. Some sedation types need an empty stomach for several hours.
  • What to wear. Wear loose, comfy clothes with short sleeves. Skip jewelry and makeup, and leave contact lenses at home if you will be sedated.
  • Brush and floss before you come in.
  • Bring your medicine list, insurance card and your driver if you need one.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about pre-operative care

Can I eat before my procedure?
It depends. For a simple procedure with numbing only, a light meal beforehand is often fine. For sedation, you may need to skip food and drink for a set time. Follow the instructions your dentist gives you.
Do I need someone to drive me?
If you are having oral sedation or deeper sedation, yes. An adult needs to drive you home and should stay with you for a while. With numbing only or laughing gas, many people can drive.
Should I take my normal medicines that morning?
Most people keep taking their normal medicines, but some may need to change. Ask your dentist ahead of time and do not stop anything on your own.
What if I get sick before my appointment?
Call us if you have a fever, cold, cough or other illness. It may be safer to move your visit, especially if you are having sedation.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Tooth Extractions

Careful removal of a tooth that cannot be saved, plus a plan to replace it if you want one.

About tooth extractions

Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

Call (385) 481-6738Get directions