Preparing for Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do Before Surgery

Preparing for Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Do Before Surgery

December 1, 2023

Are you facing the prospect of having your wisdom teeth removed? Don’t worry; you’re not alone! Wisdom teeth removal, or the third molar extraction, is a common dental procedure. In this article, we’ll guide you through what to do before surgery to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Also, we suggest the best dental clinic if you’re looking for wisdom tooth extraction near me.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

The third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last. They usually come in when you are in your late teens or early twenties. These latecomers can cause various dental problems due to their limited space in your mouth. They may become impacted, leading to pain, infection, and even damage to neighbouring teeth. To prevent such issues, many individuals opt for wisdom teeth removal.

Steps to Prepare for Wisdom Tooth Extraction

  1. Consultation with Your Dentist: First, you must make an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon. They will check out your oral health and talk to you about whether you need to remove your wisdom teeth. This initial consultation is crucial if you’re searching for wisdom teeth removal in Calgary, AB.
  2. Discussion of Anesthesia: During your consultation, you’ll discuss the type of anaesthesia used during the procedure. Your options may include local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia, depending on your comfort and the complexity of the extraction.
  3. Medical History: Inform your dentist about your complete medical history, including allergies, medications, or pre-existing health conditions. This information is crucial for planning the procedure and ensuring your safety.
  4. Dietary Adjustments: You’ll likely be advised to modify your diet in the days leading up to the surgery. It typically involves avoiding solid foods and sticking to a soft or liquid diet.
  5. Pre-Surgery Restrictions: Your dentist may recommend not smoking or drinking alcohol for a certain period before the surgery. These substances can hinder the healing process.
  6. Transportation: If you are receiving sedation or general anaesthesia, make sure to have someone available to drive you back and forth from the surgery since you’ll be unable to drive under the effects.
  7. Post-Op Care: Ask your dentist for detailed instructions on post-operative care, including pain management and any necessary follow-up appointments.
  8. Recovery Time: Plan for some downtime following the surgery. You may need a few days off from work or school to recover fully.
  9. Home Comfort: Before the surgery, set up a comfortable and quiet recovery space at home with soft pillows, blankets, and entertainment to keep you occupied during your recovery period.

Emergency Wisdom Tooth Removal

While wisdom tooth extraction is usually a planned procedure, there are situations where emergency removal may be necessary. In case of intense pain, noticeable swelling, or symptoms of infection, it’s important to contact your dentist immediately. They will evaluate your condition and, if needed, schedule an emergency wisdom tooth removal to alleviate your discomfort.

In cases of emergency teeth removal, you should still follow the pre-surgery preparation steps as much as possible, but the timing might be more urgent. Your dentist will provide specific instructions to ensure safety and comfort during the procedure.

Common Questions and Concerns

You might have some questions or concerns as you prepare for wisdom tooth extraction. Here are a few common ones:

  1. Will it hurt? While you’ll feel pressure and discomfort during the procedure, you shouldn’t experience pain due to the anaesthesia. After the surgery, you’ll be prescribed pain medication to manage any post-operative discomfort.
  2. How long does it take? The length of time the extraction takes can differ based on its complexity. Simple extractions may take as little as 20-30 minutes, while more complex cases may take longer.
  3. What can I eat after the surgery? Soft foods like yoghurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are ideal in the days following surgery. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods irritating the surgical site.
  4. What if I have an emergency? While complications are rare, knowing the signs of a problem is essential. If you encounter substantial bleeding, severe discomfort, or infection indicators, it’s vital to contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.
  5. How long is the recovery? Usually, the initial healing phase spans from a few days up to one week. Full healing may take a few weeks, during which you should follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an emergency teeth removal service in Calgary, AB, we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact us and book an appointment at Meadows View Dental today. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your wisdom tooth extraction experience is as stress-free as possible. Your oral health is our top priority!

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