7 Ways to Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth emerge at age 17 to 25 because they take a long time to develop.

Wisdom teeth are typically impacted, meaning they do not come through the gums and instead grow behind them. Entrapped teeth can cause pain, infection, or difficulty in eating or speaking due to bone impingement. These problems can affect your oral health, so call or visit an emergency dentist in seattle to remove wisdom teeth and prevent complications.

What is Wisdom Teeth Extraction Surgery?

Wisdom teeth extraction surgery is a surgical procedure to remove wisdom teeth. It is usually done when the wisdom teeth are impacted and cannot be removed through regular dental extractions.

Wisdom teeth extraction surgery can prevent people from undergoing more extensive dental work in the future. Teeth removal can reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease or tooth decay.

What are the Ways to Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Getting a wisdom teeth removal neat is not complicated, but it is important to prepare before the surgery.

Give your dentist a medical and drug history

It is crucial to discuss the medications you are taking with your dentist, whether prescription or recreational. Some of the drugs can interact with the anesthesia or cause adverse effects. Also, people who take recreational drugs may respond differently to the anesthesia.

Avoid smoking before the surgery.

Smoking can lead to bleeding, infection, and chronic pain. It can damage the jaw’s nerves and increase blood pressure and heart rate, which is not ideal for someone who is already under anesthesia. The best way to avoid these complications is by stopping smoking a few days before the procedure.

Avoid eating anything for at least 12 hours before surgery

Eating before the wisdom teeth surgery can cause regurgitation and obstruction during the procedure when you are under anesthesia.

Buy soft foods before the surgery

It is recommended to eat soft and easy-to-chew foods after the wisdom teeth extraction to give your gums a rest. Also, avoid taking spicy and hot foods to enable the gums to heal and reduce irritation.

Take time off work or school

It is important to rest for 24 hours after wisdom teeth extraction because it allows the jaw muscles to recover from the surgery. This can help prevent complications such as bleeding, swelling, infection, or pain.

After an extraction, it is recommended that you lie down with your head elevated for at least six hours and use ice packs on your face for 20 minutes every hour.

Do not drive

It is advisable to operate an automobile after your surgery, so it is important to have a friend drive you to the dental office and back home.

Dress comfortably

Make sure that you bring comfortable clothes for outdoor activities such as loose t-shirts and sweatpants. Wear glasses instead of contact lenses for those who have an eye problem.

Should You Sleep Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?

The answer is not clear, but the best approach is to sleep for a couple of hours before wisdom teeth removal.

Some people believe that sleeping before wisdom teeth removal will help you relax and not feel pain during the procedure.

Why Can’t You Drink Water Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?

You will be asked to avoid food, drink, and water for up to 12 hours before your surgery.

Fasting before surgery is an important step to take and can help prevent complications. It may also lower the risk of aspiration, leading to significant issues for your body.

How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Extraction Take to Recover?

The recovery process depends on the individual, but it generally takes about two to three weeks for wisdom teeth extractions to heal.

Most people will experience headaches and a loss of appetite during the recovery period. For this reason, it’s essential to follow their doctors’ instructions on what to do after wisdom teeth extraction surgery.