How to Prepare for Your Oral Surgery: A Patient’s Guide in Torrance

Whether you’re getting your wisdom teeth removed, dental implants placed, or undergoing corrective jaw surgery, preparing for oral surgery is key to ensuring a smooth experience and successful recovery. At Torrance Oral Surgery Center, we believe that informed patients have better outcomes, which is why we take the time to guide each patient through what to expect before, during, and after their procedure.

Oral surgery is a routine part of advanced dental care, but it’s natural to feel a little nervous about your appointment. The good news is that with the right preparation, you can reduce anxiety, minimize complications, and help your body heal more efficiently.

Here’s everything you need to know to get ready for oral surgery in Torrance and the South Bay area.

Why Preparation Matters

Oral surgery may involve local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Preparing for surgery not only helps ensure your comfort and safety during the procedure but also improves your body’s ability to heal afterward.

Proper preparation helps:

• Reduce the risk of complications
• Improve anesthesia safety
• Minimize post-operative discomfort
• Shorten recovery time

What to Do Before Your Oral Surgery

Once your surgery is scheduled at Torrance Oral Surgery Center, our team will provide detailed pre-operative instructions. Here are some general steps to help you prepare:

1. Review Your Medical History and Medications

Before your surgery, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Benjamin Yagoubian, DDS, MD, our dual-degree oral and maxillofacial surgeon. He will review your full medical history, including any chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, as well as any medications you’re taking.

Be sure to inform our team if you:

• Take blood thinners, anticoagulants, or aspirin
• Use medications for diabetes or heart conditions
• Have allergies to medications or anesthesia
• Have a history of bleeding disorders

You may need to temporarily adjust or stop certain medications before surgery. Always consult with your primary care physician or specialist before making changes.

2. Arrange Transportation and Post-Operative Care

For most oral surgeries performed with IV sedation or general anesthesia, you will not be able to drive yourself home afterward. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from our Torrance office and stay with you for several hours after surgery.

It’s also a good idea to arrange for extra help at home, especially if you’re undergoing more complex procedures like All-on-4 dental implants or wisdom teeth removal.

3. Follow Fasting Guidelines

If you’re receiving sedation or general anesthesia, you will need to avoid eating or drinking anything—including water—for at least 6 to 8 hours before surgery. This helps prevent nausea and complications during anesthesia.

If you’re undergoing a minor procedure with local anesthesia only, you may not need to fast. Our team will provide specific instructions based on your procedure and sedation type.

4. Wear Comfortable Clothing

On the day of surgery, dress in loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves to allow easy access for monitoring equipment and IV placement. Avoid wearing jewelry, contact lenses, makeup, or nail polish.

5. Prepare Your Home for Recovery

Before your surgery, stock up on soft foods, pain medications, ice packs, and other supplies you’ll need during recovery. Some items to have ready include:

• Soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soup
• Over-the-counter pain relievers (unless prescribed otherwise)
• Ice packs for swelling
• Extra pillows to elevate your head
• Gauze pads for controlling bleeding

Setting up a comfortable recovery area in advance will make your healing process easier.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

When you arrive at Torrance Oral Surgery Center, our team will make sure you’re comfortable and prepared. Here’s what typically happens:

• You’ll be asked to confirm your medical history, medications, and any allergies.
• Our team will review the procedure with you and answer any last-minute questions.
• Vital signs will be checked, and anesthesia or sedation will be administered.
• The surgery will be performed in our state-of-the-art facility.
• You’ll be monitored during recovery until you’re cleared to go home.

The length of your surgery will depend on the type of procedure, but our team will keep you informed every step of the way.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Recovery is an essential part of the oral surgery process. Following your post-operative instructions carefully will help prevent complications and promote faster healing. Here are some key tips:

• Rest and limit physical activity for the first 24 to 48 hours.
• Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.
• Use ice packs on the affected area for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off during the first day.
• Stick to soft foods and avoid using straws, which can dislodge blood clots.
• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as directed.
• Keep the surgical area clean by following your surgeon’s oral hygiene instructions.

If you experience unusual pain, swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection, contact our office immediately.

Why Choose Torrance Oral Surgery Center

At Torrance Oral Surgery Center, we are committed to providing advanced, compassionate care to patients throughout Torrance, the South Bay, and Los Angeles County. Dr. Benjamin Yagoubian, DDS, MD, is a highly trained, dual-degree oral surgeon with extensive experience in procedures ranging from wisdom teeth extraction to complex dental implant placement.

Our modern surgical facility is equipped with the latest technology to ensure patient safety, comfort, and optimal outcomes. Whether you’re undergoing a routine extraction or a more advanced procedure, you can trust our team to deliver expert care every step of the way.

Ready for Surgery? We’re Here to Help

Preparing for oral surgery doesn’t have to be stressful. When you choose Torrance Oral Surgery Center, you’re in the hands of experienced professionals who will guide you through every phase of the process.

If you’re scheduled for surgery or considering an oral procedure in Torrance or the South Bay area, contact us today. We’ll provide the information, resources, and support you need to feel confident and prepared.