General Information
We know that an upcoming appointment can be a source of anxiety and apprehension for some patients. Rest assured, we will do everything we can to make you as comfortable as possible during and after the procedure. There should be no discomfort during the procedure itself; today's modern local anesthetics are very effective. Relaxation during the procedure may be enhanced through the administration of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation, or through oral sedation such as Halcion. Halcion is a sedative drug, similar to Valium.
We will answer any questions you may have before, during, or after the procedure, as well as review postoperative care with you when the treatment has been completed.
Before Your Treatment
You may have been given a prescription for an antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medication to begin taking according to the instructions on the bottle. It is a good idea to have the medications for postoperative discomfort prior to the procedure so you do not have to stop at the pharmacy on the way home.
If you are taking aspirin daily, please discuss this with the doctor. Aspirin, or other anticoagulant medicines such as Plavix or Coumadin, can interfere with normal blood clotting and we may ask you to discontinue its use for several days before and after the surgery. Also, if you are on any osteoporosis medicines, please advise us.
Eating before the appointment will make you feel better during and after the procedure.
Before treatment we premedicate most of our patients with 800mg Ibuprofen (Motrin) to assist in reducing post-surgical problems. Ibuprofen should not be taken on an empty stomach and for this reason we want you to eat. If you cannot take any anti-inflammatory medicines, please let us know.