Getting can seem like a nerve-wracking experience, but the process is actually quite straightforward, especially if you prepare ahead of time! By taking a few small steps, you can simplify the extraction and the recovery afterward so you can move on with your life as soon as possible. Before your wisdom teeth extraction appointment, review these tips to ensure that you are prepared.
Wisdom teeth extractions: What to know
Depending on the situation, a wisdom tooth extraction can involve removing all four wisdom teeth or only certain ones. Regardless of the type of extraction, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Prepare the right way
While a wisdom tooth extraction is a simple process, it still requires invasive techniques. To streamline the process, the patient should not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of the procedure. This way, if the dentist needs to use sedation, the patient is not at risk of aspiration.
Similarly, patients should not smoke the day before or of the procedure. If a patient uses recreational drugs, alcohol, or even prescription medications and over-the-counter vitamins, they should be sure to say so. The extraction team will not judge; they are there to ensure the patient’s safety, and they may need to make different choices about administering pain relief or sedation based on the patient’s other drug use habits.
Get ready for recovery
A wisdom tooth extraction can leave the body tired as it begins to heal. Patients should support this part of recovery by preparing ahead of time so the only thing left to do is rest. Purchase soft or liquid foods to have at home for after the procedure. Ensure that any electronics are charged and ready to go, and make up the bed with fresh pillows and sheets. The patient is more likely to rest fully if they have their space already set up.
Stay comfortable
On the day of the procedure, wear comfortable clothing. Leave jewelry at home, and avoid applying makeup, lipstick, or contact lenses. These elements can make the extraction more challenging, so it is best for patients to come in a relaxed outfit with no loose pieces to account for.
Find a driver
Most wisdom teeth extractions will be performed under some type of sedation, both for the patient’s comfort and the oral surgeon's ease. It can take a while for this sedation to fully wear off, so patients must locate someone who can drive them home. Even if a patient feels alert and awake, their reaction times can take several hours to return to baseline, which may make it unsafe for them to drive themselves or use public transit.
Be confident about wisdom teeth extraction
A wisdom tooth extraction is good for your overall oral health, and with a bit of preparation, it can even be an excuse for a restful few days. Contact our office to ask questions about the extraction process and hear more of our tips for what to know before your appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.northsideoms.com or call Northside Minnesota Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons at (763) 284-3159 for an appointment in our Coon Rapids office.
Related Posts
Placing dental implants takes precise planning and movement and ensures long-lasting, successful results. Cone beam X-ray technology is essential for oral surgeons during dental implant placements. This technology provides detailed, three-dimensional images of the oral and facial structures.Cone beam X-ray technology offers a significant advantage in dental implant procedures by producing highly accurate three-dimensional images…
Wisdom teeth extractions can help adults address pain, infections, crowding, and hard-to-clean third molars before they cause larger problems. Although many people get their wisdom teeth removed as teenagers, adults can also benefit from extraction when these back teeth do not have enough room to grow in properly. An oral surgeon evaluates the position of…
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause significant discomfort and affect your overall quality of life. TMJ treatment is an important consideration if you are experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing. Oral surgeons recommend distinct treatment options based on the severity and specific cause of the condition.In many cases, conservative approaches represent the first line…
Visiting an implant specialist is essential for patients considering dental implants to replace missing teeth and restore oral function. An implant specialist possesses advanced training and specialized expertise in dental implant procedures, ensuring optimal results and reducing the risk of complications. Consulting with an implant specialist helps patients achieve long-lasting, comfortable, and natural-looking replacements for…
