What To Do Before And After Your Wisdom Teeth Removal

Most people have to get their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their lives. If you, for some reason, didn't get yours extracted as a teenager, your dentist might recommend removing them as an adult. Now that you don't have your parents to walk you through it, what steps do you need to take to prepare for the big day? Here are a few things you should do before and immediately after your surgery for the best outcome. 

Before Wisdom Teeth Extraction

When you go in for surgery, the dentist will use anesthesia. Any surgery requiring anesthesia automatically means that you will have to fast for at least 12 hours beforehand. It can make some people vomit, so be prepared to refrain from eating or drinking starting at midnight the night before. If you take medication, you should be able to take it the night before and the morning of your surgery. Be sure to ask your doctor to make sure. 

Since you will likely be loopy from the anesthesia, arrange for a friend or family member to pick you up from your appointment and take you home safely. Prepare your home before you go in to your appointment so you can crash when you walk in the door. Set up extra pillows in your bed so you can rest comfortably for the day. Stock up on magazines, books, and movies to entertain you while you recover. 

After the Surgery 

For the first day or so after surgery, you might need to eat soft foods such as applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid using straws or smoking, as the sucking motion can open stitches and cause bleeding. You should also avoid crunchy foods such as popcorn, pretzels, and candy. It's important to note that the anesthesia will make you feel numb to extreme temperatures, so avoid hot food like soup until all feeling in your mouth returns. Your mouth will likely feel quite swollen, so use an ice pack a few times an hour to help reduce swelling. 

Your doctor may give you pain killers to reduce pain right after surgery. Plan to be in bed as much as possible for the first two days after surgery. Avoid heavy lifting, driving, alcohol, and excessive movement. The more you rest immediately following your appointment, the faster you'll heal. Try to eat foods high in vitamins A and C to speed up recovery times. 

You might feel nervous about your wisdom teeth removal as an adult, but proper preparation can remove some of your fears. Use the tips above to improve your experience and recover fast.

To learn more, contact a company like Oral & Maxillofacial Surgical Associates.