How do I prepare for dental surgery?

What to do in the week before, on the day and afterwards.

Dr Bill Kalis — Saturday 14 November 2026

Preparing for dental surgery comes down to five things: tell us about your health and medications, follow your fasting instructions if you are having sedation, arrange someone to take you home, stock up on soft food, and plan two or three quiet days afterwards.

I am Dr Bill Kalis, principal dentist at Padstow Dental in Padstow, Sydney. This guide applies to wisdom teeth removal, implant surgery and other surgical procedures. Your own written instructions from us always come first.

What should I do in the week before?

• Tell us about every medication and supplement you take, including blood thinners and injections for diabetes or weight loss

• Do not stop any medication unless you have been told to

• Fill any prescriptions we have given you

• Arrange time off work or study

• Arrange a responsible adult to take you home if you are having sedation

• Stop smoking and vaping if you can, as both slow healing

• Tell us if you become unwell before your appointment

What should I have at home?

• Soft food: yoghurt, soup, eggs, mashed vegetables, smoothies

• An ice pack

• Simple pain relief, as we advise

• Extra pillows to keep your head raised

• Salt for warm salt-water rinses, or the mouthwash we recommend

What do I do on the day if I am having IV sedation?

• Follow your written fasting instructions exactly

• Take your regular medications only as instructed

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing with sleeves that roll up easily

• Leave jewellery and valuables at home

• Bring your responsible adult, who must take you home and stay with you

What if I am having local anaesthetic only?

You do not need to fast. Eat a normal meal beforehand, and take your regular medications as usual unless we have told you otherwise.

What happens straight afterwards?

You rest with us until you are ready to leave. We give you written aftercare instructions and gauze, and explain your pain relief. After sedation, do not drive, work, drink alcohol or make important decisions for 24 hours.

How do I look after myself in the first few days?

Rest, keep your head raised, use ice packs in the first two days, eat soft food and start gentle rinsing the day after surgery. Swelling usually peaks on days 2 to 3.

When should I call?

Call us on 02 9773 4775 if you have bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, pain that is getting worse after a few days, or a fever. If you have trouble swallowing or breathing, call 000.

Common questions about preparing for surgery

Can I drive myself home?

After local anaesthetic alone, usually yes. After IV sedation, no.

How much time off will I need?

It depends on the procedure. Many people plan two or three quiet days after wisdom teeth removal.

Is a deposit needed?

Yes. A deposit is taken when surgery or sedation is booked.

What if I am anxious?

Tell us. Read about IV sedation at Padstow Dental.

Have a question before your surgery?

Call 02 9773 4775. We would rather you ask than wonder.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Written by Dr Bill Kalis, Principal Dentist at Padstow Dental. BDS (Hons), University of Sydney, 1994. Graduate Certificate in Clinical Dentistry, University of Adelaide, 2007. Past State and Federal President of the Australian Society of Implant Dentistry. Dr Kalis is a general dentist with a focus on implant, surgical and IV sedation dentistry.