What Did You Have To Take Before Your Oral Surgery?

That mouthwash was the worst part for me - tasted like gym socks soaked in mint. My dentist skipped antibiotics too, just told me to show up hungry and grumpy. Did anyone else get that weird “no water after midnight” rule? Felt like I was prepping for a rocket launch, not a tooth yank.

That “no water after midnight” thing is actually standard for a lot of procedures involving sedation or general anesthesia. It’s to reduce the risk of aspiration - basically, if there’s anything in your stomach, you could inhale it while under. I get why it feels overkill for just a tooth extraction, but if they’re using IV sedation, it’s pretty necessary. As for the mouthwash, I’ve had to use chlorhexidine before and yeah, it’s got a weird aftertaste... not quite gym socks, but definitely not pleasant. I’ve noticed some dentists skip antibiotics unless there’s a specific infection risk, which is probably a good move to avoid resistance.

My kiddo had to follow that “no food or water after midnight” rule too before getting a baby tooth pulled with IV sedation. I remember worrying she’d wake up thirsty and cranky, but honestly, she was more curious about the “sleepy medicine.” The mouthwash was a struggle - she called it “spicy water” and made the best faces. No antibiotics for her either, which I was relieved about since she’s had tummy trouble from them before. It all felt like a lot for one little tooth, but I get why they’re so cautious.

No antibiotics for her either, which I was relieved about since she’s had tummy trouble from them before. It all felt like a lot for one little tooth, but I get why they’re so cautious.

That “spicy water” comment cracked me up - mouthwash is a tough sell for kids (and honestly, some adults). The fasting rule always feels intense, but it really does lower the risk of aspiration with IV sedation. I’ve seen a lot of parents worry about the no-antibiotics thing, but unless there’s a specific infection risk, it’s usually better to skip them. Antibiotic tummy troubles are no joke. Kids bounce back fast, but it’s wild how much prep goes into even a “simple” extraction.

I get why skipping antibiotics is the go-to, but honestly, I almost wish they’d offered them for my wisdom teeth. I was so freaked out about infection, even though my dentist said it wasn’t necessary. Maybe it’s just my anxiety talking, but a part of me would’ve felt safer with that extra precaution, even if it meant risking some stomach upset. I know overprescribing is a thing, but when you’re the patient, it’s hard not to want every backup possible.