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://greatlakesos.com or call Great Lakes Oral Surgery at (734) 961-4864 for an appointment in our Ann Arbor office.
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