Preparing for Dental Surgery: Your Complete Checklist

Whether you are having dental implants placed, wisdom teeth removed, or another surgical procedure at Shine Dental in Newington, proper preparation helps ensure a smooth experience and supports faster recovery. Dr. Jin-Ho Cho, with over 35 years of surgical experience, has put together this comprehensive guide for patients.

One to Two Weeks Before Surgery

Medical Preparation - Inform Dr. Cho of all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements - Disclose your complete medical history, including any allergies, chronic conditions, bleeding disorders, and previous reactions to anaesthesia - Ask about medications to pause — some medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily paused before surgery (only under your doctor's guidance) - Get medical clearance if you have conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or blood pressure issues — Dr. Cho may ask you to obtain a letter from your GP

Lifestyle Adjustments - Stop smoking at least 48 hours before surgery (ideally longer). Smoking significantly impairs healing and increases the risk of complications - Reduce alcohol consumption in the days leading up to your procedure - Get adequate sleep — a well-rested body heals more effectively - Eat nutritious meals to ensure your body is in optimal condition for healing

The Day Before Surgery

• Confirm your appointment time and location with Shine Dental
• Arrange transportation — you should not drive yourself home after surgery if you are receiving sedation or expect to feel unwell afterward
• Prepare soft foods at home — stock up on yoghurt, soup, mashed vegetables, smoothie ingredients, and other soft foods for your recovery
• Prepare a recovery area — set up a comfortable resting spot at home with pillows, blankets, your phone, and entertainment
• Fill any prescriptions Dr. Cho has provided, such as antibiotics or pain medication, so they are ready when you get home
• Set reminders for any pre-operative instructions, such as fasting times

The Morning of Surgery

If Fasting Is Required If you are having sedation or general anaesthesia: - Do not eat or drink anything for the period specified by Dr. Cho (typically 6-8 hours for food, 2 hours for clear fluids) - Take any approved medications with a small sip of water as directed

What to Wear - Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing - Short sleeves or sleeves that can be easily rolled up (for blood pressure monitoring or IV access if applicable) - Flat, comfortable shoes - Remove contact lenses and wear glasses instead

What to Bring - Your Medicare card and health fund card - A list of current medications - Any referral letters or documentation - A form of identification - Your arranged transport details

What to Leave at Home - Jewellery (especially facial piercings) - Valuables - Heavy makeup (for facial procedures)

At the Clinic

When you arrive at Shine Dental, our team will:

• Confirm your identity and procedure details
• Review your medical history and check for any last-minute changes
• Take your blood pressure and other vital signs if required
• Explain the procedure one more time and answer any final questions
• Administer anaesthesia and begin the procedure when you are ready

Dr. Cho and the team will ensure you are comfortable throughout the process. Do not hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns — we want you to feel confident and informed.

After Surgery: Recovery Checklist

Immediately After - Have someone drive you home - Rest for the remainder of the day - Apply ice packs as directed (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to manage swelling - Take prescribed medications as directed

First 24-48 Hours - Eat only soft, lukewarm foods - Drink plenty of water (avoid straws if you have had oral surgery) - Avoid smoking and alcohol - Avoid vigorous rinsing — gentle saltwater rinses can begin after 24 hours - Sleep with your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling

First Week - Gradually reintroduce firmer foods as comfort allows - Continue prescribed medications as directed - Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments at Shine Dental - Contact us immediately if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or signs of infection

Ongoing - Follow all post-operative care instructions from Dr. Cho - Maintain gentle oral hygiene around the surgical site - Return for follow-up appointments to monitor healing - Resume normal activities as advised by Dr. Cho

When to Call Shine Dental

Contact us if you experience:

• Pain that worsens after 2-3 days rather than improving
• Heavy or persistent bleeding
• Fever over 38°C
• Excessive swelling that increases after 48 hours
• Numbness or tingling that persists beyond a few hours
• Any reaction to prescribed medications

Clinic Hours

• Monday to Wednesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Thursday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
• Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Saturday and Sunday: Closed

We serve patients from Newington, Wentworth Point, Auburn, Sydney Olympic Park, Lidcombe, Homebush, Silverwater, Rhodes, Concord, Strathfield, and surrounding suburbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I take off work after dental surgery?
This depends on the type of procedure. For simple extractions, 1-2 days may be sufficient. For dental implant surgery, 2-3 days is common. Dr. Cho will advise you based on your specific procedure.

Can I drive myself home after surgery?
If you receive local anaesthesia only and feel well, you may be able to drive. If you receive sedation, you must arrange alternative transport. We recommend having someone accompany you regardless.

Should I take antibiotics before dental surgery?
Dr. Cho will prescribe antibiotics if they are necessary for your case. Do not self-prescribe — follow his specific instructions.

What if I am feeling anxious about the surgery?
Dental anxiety is very common. Let Dr. Cho and our team know about your concerns. We can discuss techniques and options to help you feel more comfortable.

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Have questions about your upcoming procedure? Call Shine Dental at (02) 9748 4822 or visit our contact page. We are here to make your surgical experience as smooth as possible.