Pre-operative Instructions
The following information is intended to help you prepare for your upcoming procedure at Alpine Periodontics and Dental Implants. Our goal is to help make your surgical experience as comfortable, smooth, and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions prior to your appointment, please do not hesitate to contact our office at (425) 775-2002 during regular business hours.
Prescriptions
You may receive pre-operative and post-operative prescriptions prior to your surgical visit. For your convenience, we recommend having these medications filled before the day of surgery unless they have already been sent directly to your preferred pharmacy.
Please bring your medications with you to your appointment unless instructed otherwise by our team.
Medications and Medical Considerations
Certain medications may need to be adjusted prior to surgery. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and naproxen may increase bleeding and are often discontinued approximately 5-7 days before surgery unless otherwise directed by your physician.
If you are taking blood thinners such as Coumadin®, warfarin, Eliquis®, Xarelto®, Plavix®, or other anticoagulant medications, please follow the specific instructions provided by your physician and our office regarding temporary discontinuation or modification prior to treatment.
If you require antibiotic premedication for dental procedures, please take it exactly as directed prior to your appointment.
Please notify our office of any medical conditions, medication changes, allergies, or sensitivities prior to surgery.
Day of Surgery
In most cases, patients feel better during and after treatment when they have eaten a light meal beforehand unless specifically instructed otherwise.
Patients are welcome to bring headphones, music, or other calming entertainment to help them relax during treatment.
Sedation and Relaxation Medications
For patients electing oral sedation or relaxation medication, a responsible adult must accompany you to and from the office.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be prescribed depending on the type of procedure being performed and your individual medical needs. Please alert our office to any allergies or sensitivities to antibiotics or medications.
Take all medications exactly as directed. Antibiotics are often best tolerated with food to help minimize nausea or stomach upset.
For patients taking oral contraceptive medications, please note that certain antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
Post-Operative Follow-Up
Your healing and long-term treatment outcome are extremely important to us. Depending on the procedure performed, follow-up visits may be scheduled periodically during the first several weeks after surgery to monitor healing and ensure optimal results.
In many cases, patients are also seen approximately 10–12 weeks following surgery for periodontal maintenance therapy and evaluation of tissue maturation and healing.
Food Suggestions Following Surgery
When preparing for recovery after surgery, softer foods are often recommended during the initial healing period. Suggested foods may include:
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Oatmeal
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta
- Rice
- Eggs
- Cottage cheese
- Soup
- Pudding
- Smoothies or protein shakes
- Macaroni and cheese
- Soft casseroles
- Bananas
- Fish
Additional post-operative instructions specific to your procedure will be reviewed with you by our team prior to treatment.