Getting wisdom teeth extractions 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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://brighton.drjstearns.com or call Platte Valley Oral Surgery at (303) 997-0223 for an appointment in our Brighton office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Brighton, CO.
Cleft lip treatment can occur early in life and set the child up for normal mouth function, including eating, speaking, and expression. A cleft lip is a condition in which an infant’s lip does not seamlessly connect; instead, a gap is present, often leading toward the nose. This congenital disability is one of the most…
A single tooth implant can replace a natural tooth with a titanium rod and an artificial crown. It is custom-fit to fill the dental space after losing a tooth. Knowing more about this dental replacement can help you prepare for your next visit. Here are the details on how a single tooth implant can enhance…
Dental implants are the gold standard of dental replacements. Titanium rods and porcelain crowns are the most stable dental replacements you can get. Once osseointegration ends, you will have a strong, stunning smile again. Knowing the advantages of dental implants can motivate you to see your dentist about getting these restorations. Here are the three…
Sometimes, tooth extractions may be necessary to improve your oral health. This procedure is a type of oral surgery. That is why getting this procedure from an experienced dental professional is ideal. Here are the details about the importance of getting tooth extractions from an oral surgeon.An oral surgeon will perform a complete assessment of…
A cleft lip is a condition in which an infant’s lip does not seamlessly connect;…
Studies reveal that a full set of teeth completes the full function of a jaw.…
Dental implants prevent jawbone loss and give proper support to the facial structures.
Sometimes, tooth extractions may be necessary to improve your oral health. This procedure is a…
A sinus lift or sinus augmentation can build up your upper jaw. This procedure is…
A surgical tooth extraction may be a result of multiple issues. Teeth are not like…
