Can I drive home after oral surgery?
Written by Charan
Last updated
Driving after oral surgery depends on the type of anesthesia used and the individual's response to the medication. It's generally recommended to arrange for someone to drive the patient home after oral surgery.
If local anesthesia is used, which numbs the surgical area, it may be possible for the patient to drive themselves home after the procedure. However, it's important to note that certain medications or sedatives used in conjunction with local anesthesia can still impair driving ability.
If general anesthesia is used, which renders the patient unconscious, it is absolutely necessary to have someone else drive the patient home. General anesthesia can cause drowsiness and impair coordination and judgment, making it unsafe to operate a vehicle.
It's always best to follow the oral surgeon's specific instructions regarding driving restrictions after oral surgery. They will take into consideration the type of anesthesia used, the complexity of the procedure, and the individual's overall health and response to medication.