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What To Avoid Before Wisdom Teeth Removal

July 08, 202422 min read

As I brush up on information on wisdom teeth, I can't help but think about how having these molars removed is a rite of passage for many, often accompanied by a substantial amount of preparation. From the sizable mass they contribute to our mouths to the specific oral hygiene practices, such as using a therapeutic mouthwash, there's much to consider. But what about the days leading up to the surgery? One aspect that doesn't always get the spotlight but is equally paramount is the dietary preparation, which includes everything from carbohydrate loading for energy reserves to incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like peas into meals. I'm about to share insights that will help you navigate these dietary waters, ensuring you’re as prepared as possible for a smooth surgery and recovery. Keep reading to uncover the do's and don'ts of pre-operative eating.

Key Takeaways

  • Adhering to Pre-Surgery Dietary Restrictions Is Crucial for a Successful Wisdom Teeth Extraction

  • Fasting Before Sedation Is Essential to Minimize the Risk of Complications During the Procedure

  • Opting for Soft, Hydrating Nutrition Aids in Post-Surgery Recovery and Minimizes Digestive Stress

  • Consulting With Healthcare Providers Ensures Medication and Diet Alignment for Surgery Readiness

  • Pre-Surgery Preparation Imitates Rigorous Pre-Marathon Discipline for Optimized Outcomes

What to Avoid Before Wisdom Teeth Removal

a person stares thoughtfully into an open refrigerator stocked with various foods and drinks and information on wisdom teeth.

As I prepare for my wisdom tooth extraction, the array of questions I've gathered resembles the frequently asked section of a dental website – a personal FAQ on do's and don’ts. One crucial aspect I've learned is the significance of adhering to specific dietary restrictions. Staying clear of alcoholic beverages is pivotal, not just for their effect on my system, but because they could severely impact the surgery's outcome. Navigating my pantry, I realize hard or sticky foods that I usually enjoy must be sidestepped to evade undue complications. I was advised that the consumption of any food, let alone hummus – no matter how soft – hinges on the type of sedation I will undergo. Spicy and acidic foods, those that promise a burst of flavor, now pose a potential risk of irritation and should be avoided. Sugary treats and beverages, ordinarily a delight, must also take a back seat to thwart any interference with my healing process. Even my morning routine isn't spared, as I've come to understand how detrimental smoking can be, especially prior to a procedure as sensitive as this. What surprises me is the need to reconsider even seemingly harmless choices like juice, which might be too acidic, and the unexpected roles that a bland protein supplement could play in my pre-surgery nutrition plan.

Alcoholic Beverages and Their Impact

Steering clear of alcohol in the days leading up to my wisdom teeth extraction is more than a mere precaution; it's an integral part of my pre-surgery regimen. Alcohol's ability to thin the blood can compromise the delicate balance required for optimal therapy during and after the extraction, affecting both wound healing and general recovery times.

Furthermore, alcohol has a notorious reputation for disrupting appetite, which can be less than ideal when trying to maintain a balanced diet geared towards sports nutrition. Nourishing the body appropriately is vital for recovery, and the potential for alcohol to unsettle this balance is a risk I'm not willing to take as my surgery approaches.

Hard or Sticky Foods That Can Complicate Surgery

In the days leading up to my wisdom teeth surgery, I've realized that stepping away from hard or sticky foods is non-negotiable. Not only do these foods pose a risk for causing damage to other teeth, but they could also jeopardize the stability of any graft that's planned as part of the dental procedure.

Keeping an eye on my pre-surgery weight loss diet plan, I understand it's essential to avoid foods that might increase the chances of tooth decay or inflammation, factors that could complicate the surgery's success. While I might miss crunching on my favorite snacks, it's a small sacrifice compared to the peace of mind knowing I'm minimizing risks and setting the stage for a smoother recovery, where the only ice pack involved will be there to ease post-surgical swelling.

Avoid Eating Before Surgery Depending on Sedation Type

My pre-surgical instructions were unequivocal when mentioning that the consumption of any solid food, including a comforting bowl of macaroni, must be halted hours before the procedure, depending on the type of sedation I will receive. Following a diet before gastric sleeve surgery, it's paramount to ensure my stomach is empty to prevent the risk of aspirating food into my lungs, a consideration just as critical for oral surgery.

  • Assess the specific fasting requirements based on the sedation that will be administered.

  • Skip solid foods, like macaroni and legumes, well in advance of the operation.

  • Understand that an empty stomach safeguards against complications during the surgery.

Additionally, as I compile my list of foods to avoid, I'm reminded that even the simplest legume carries the potential to disrupt my surgical process. Clearing my body of solid foods ensures that my body utilizes stored glycogen efficiently, while also reducing the chance of any gum-related issues during the extraction—adhering to these guidelines is non-negotiable for my health and safety.

Why Spicy and Acidic Foods Are a Bad Idea

In the days before my wisdom tooth extraction, I've paid special attention to dietary fiber-rich foods like sweet potatoes. Despite their nutritional value, I understand that high fiber content might not be favorable when trying to minimize gastrointestinal activity, which is critical given that local anesthetic will be in use. Unexpectedly, what's often beneficial for my health under regular circumstances now requires careful reconsideration.

Moreover, the vibrant tang of acidic foods that normally complement my vitamin intake needs to be avoided. Such foods, with their potential to irritate the surgery site, are undesirable guests in the delicate ecosystem of my mouth pre-surgery. Sticking to this guideline, even dairy products that promise a soothing texture must be chosen with caution to ensure they don't hinder the effect of the local anesthetic or aggravate any inflammation.

Cutting Down on Sugary Foods and Beverages

Reducing my intake of sugary foods and drinks is a step I'm taking seriously as my surgery looms on the horizon. I've learned that sugars can interact negatively with anesthesia, potentially affecting both my tooth extraction procedure and my body's ability to regulate breathing post-operation.

By focusing on a diet low in sugars and saturated fat, I'm also aligning with the recommended fasting protocols. Ensuring a stable blood sugar level pre-surgery can be vital for a positive response to both anesthesia and the healing process following the removal of my wisdom teeth.

The Risks of Smoking Before Your Procedure

As the date for my wisdom teeth extraction inches closer, I am acutely aware of how smoking could potentially interfere with my sleep patterns—a crucial element for pre-procedure rest and recovery. Not only does it elevate the possibility of developing a fever, it may also negatively impact my healing post-operatively, ensuring that my last cigarette was weeks prior to the scheduled surgery isn't just a temporary weight loss strategy—it's an obligation to my overall well-being.

Moreover, the idea of smoking is now off-putting, knowing it could wreak havoc on the delicate tissues in my jaw, impeding any potential bone healing where the teeth once resided. Discontinuing this habit also reduces the chances of dry socket, an excruciating condition that can feel as if a grain of sand has lodged itself in the surgical site—I'm committed to a smoke-free path to ensure the smoothest recovery possible.

Now that you're clear on what needs to stay off your plate, let's gear up for the actual meal prep. It's time to craft a diet that'll ease your journey through wisdom teeth surgery!

Preparing Your Pre-Surgery Diet

a person thoughtfully choosing colorful fruits and vegetables from a market stall.

As my wisdom teeth removal looms on the horizon, I am meticulously planning a diet that will safeguard my procedure and hasten recovery. I've learned that knowing how to hydrate properly is just as critical as the solid foods I select. Proper hydration ensures a stable blood volume for a successful anesthesia and a smooth surgery. I'm exploring nutritious foods that are unlikely to provoke any gastrointestinal upset and won't linger in my gastrointestinal tract, posing a risk. Reflecting on the need for a liquid diet before gastric sleeve, I draw parallels to my current situation, considering the crucial final meal ahead of the operation. And let's not forget how vital antibiotics are in my postoperative recovery; optimizing my nutrient intake now can bolster the efficacy of these medications. Tailoring my diet to meet my nutritional needs without putting undue stress on my body is my goal—every sip of water, every carefully chosen meal, they're all stepping stones leading to a seamless surgery and swift healing.

How to Hydrate Properly Before the Operation

Ensuring my body is replete with fluids before the operation is a piece of advice I've taken to heart. Steering clear of drinks high in fatty acid content is paramount, as they can be overly rich and upset my stomach—instead, I've been advised to sip on calcium-enriched options like milk, which not only hydrates but also supports the bone structure around my molar sites.

Hydration, as it turns out, is far more intricate than merely drinking eight glasses of water a day, especially with surgery in the offing. Constant, moderate intake of fluid is vital for maintaining bodily functions and facilitating recovery, and I've made it a point to include beverages that aid in this balance without inducing any potential complications before my wisdom teeth removal.

Nutritious Foods That Won't Affect Your Surgery

In anticipation of my wisdom teeth removal, I've sought out nutritious foods that will support my body without causing issues during surgery. My diet now includes ingredients known for their gentle impact on the digestive system and their nutritional value, focusing on nourishing my liver and skeletal muscle without adding undue stress to my small intestine.

Ensuring my nutritional choices align with a pre bariatric surgery liquid diet, I've selected foods that are rich in essential vitamins and minerals yet are easy to digest. This approach not only spares my digestive tract from unnecessary work but also prepares my body for the fast recovery that's paramount after surgery.

Meal Planning Tips for the Day Before Surgery

In the strategic planning of my final meals before surgery, I've chosen steaming as my preferred cooking method. This gentle approach retains nutrients without introducing fats or oils that can exacerbate nausea or slow digestion, ensuring my body isn't contending with unnecessary stress or injury before the procedure.

Adhering to a strict policy that minimizes the risk of postoperative complications, such as nausea, begins with controlling my glucose intake. I plan to consume small meals composed of complex carbohydrates and lean proteins to maintain steady blood sugar levels and support my body’s energy demands without overwhelming my system.

Understanding Your Nutritional Needs

Embarking on the journey to wisdom teeth surgery underscores the need to assess and adjust my pre surgery diet meticulously. It's not just about the foods I must temporarily bid farewell; it's about ensuring my blood pressure remains stable, reducing potential risks associated with anesthesia, and priming my body for a most favorable outcome.

Adhering to a regimented pre surgery diet, akin to the disciplined approach of a 3 month pre bariatric surgery diet, demands a departure from impulsiveness. Decisions are made with forethought—from the toothpaste I use to avoid irritating my stomach, to the snacks chosen to sustain me without raising my blood pressure—it's all scrupulously planned:

  1. Choosing a toothpaste that's gentle on my stomach to prevent any pre-operative discomfort.

  2. Opting for snacks that keep my blood pressure in check, eschewing those laden with sodium and caffeine.

Careful consideration of these elements is not a mere exercise in caution; it's a critical strategy for navigating the path to recovery, with my well-being as the ultimate benchmark for success.

As we tailor our diets in anticipation of wisdom teeth removal, let's not overlook the significance of fasting protocols. Ready your mind as we transition into the critical practice of pre-surgery fasting to ensure a smooth procedure.

Navigating Fasting Guidelines Before Surgery

a clock displays the time as a person sits quietly in a waiting room, a glass of water untouched on the table next to them.

Embarking on the pathway to wisdom teeth removal, I find myself facing a pivotal element of pre-surgery protocol: fasting. Grasping the essence of why patients like myself must adhere to these guidelines is fundamental, given its impact on how the body will react to sedation. The timeline of fasting intertwins intimately with the kind of sedation administered, each demanding a specific period of abstinence from food to ensure an optimal environment for the procedure. As a person whose days are often punctuated with amino acid-rich snacks, mineral-packed juices, and vitamin B6-infused meals, envisioning a stretch of hours devoid of sustenance poses its own challenge. Yet, it is essential for the protection of delicate tissues during surgery. Hence, learning tips to manage the resulting hunger and thirst is just as crucial as understanding the fasting process itself to navigate this temporary, but essential, phase of my surgical journey.

The Importance of Fasting Based on Sedation Type

In the weeks before my wisdom teeth surgery, I was particularly meticulous about understanding the different sedation types and the requisite fasting protocols. Not unlike the prerequisites for complex surgeries like hip replacement, ensuring my stomach is unfilled is not just a suggestion but a non-negotiable directive. The risk of aspirating food into my lungs during sedation is perilous, risking infection and compromising the surgery.

As a consequence of these strict fasting guidelines, I transitioned early to a liquid diet to minimize the chance of muscle atrophy and strengthen my body's ability to heal. It's analogous to prepping for hip replacement surgery, where the body must be in prime condition to handle the stress of the procedure and facilitate recovery. A liquid diet ensures that on the day of the operation, there's no lingering cream, solids, or allergens that could interfere with anesthesia or the healing phase.

  • Recognize mandatory fasting is key for various sedation methods.

  • Embark on a liquid diet to prevent muscle atrophy.

  • Avoid foods that may raise infection risk before surgery.

How Long to Fast Before Your Procedure

Receiving guidance on the appropriate fasting duration before my dental extraction was as essential as any step in the patient registration process. I learned that typically, fasting for six to eight hours is required; nevertheless, my dentist emailed me specific instructions tailored to my situation, taking into account my medical history and the level of sedation to be used.

Adhering to these fasting instructions minimizes the risk of pain and inflammation post-surgery - crucial for a procedure as delicate as a wisdom tooth removal. It seemed daunting at first, but understanding that this preparation could lead to a smoother recovery made the process more manageable.

  1. Review personalized fasting instructions provided by your dentist.

  2. Adapt to a requisite six to eight-hour fasting period prior to dental extraction.

  3. Appreciate the role of fasting in reducing pain and inflammation post-operatively.

Tips for Dealing With Hunger and Thirst

As my surgery date draws nearer, the discomfort of fasting, a stark contrast to my usual dietary freedom, has become a hurdle I must clear. I'm well aware that faltering could lead to vomiting or constipation—complications I'm keen to avoid. To tackle the pangs of hunger, I focus on the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons' recommendations: engaging in light activities that distract the mind and sipping on water in the permissible window, ensuring my stomach remains settled.

Equally, managing thirst presents its own challenge, especially for someone like me, who has to keep a watchful eye on my type 2 diabetes while adhering to a strict pre surgery diet for gastric sleeve. I break the monotony of water with small, controlled swigs of sugar-free electrolyte drinks, as suggested, guaranteeing I stay hydrated without disrupting my carefully regulated blood sugar levels:

  1. Engage in light distractions to stave off hunger.

  2. Sip permissible beverages, such as sugar-free electrolytes, to manage thirst without impacting blood sugar.

Let's not underestimate the mental marathon of fasting; your wisdom teeth extraction is just around the corner. Tackling the myriad of questions about pre-surgery eating requires clear, concise answers.

Addressing Common Concerns About Eating Before Surgery

a person pensively examines the contents of their nearly empty plate at a dining table.

Approaching wisdom teeth removal necessitates a sort of dietary vigilance akin to prepping for a marathon. As I scrutinize every aspect of my consumption, questions loom—can I sip water to satiate my thirst, or must I adhere to total abstinence? The thought of inadvertently undermining my surgery by eating when I shouldn't is daunting, prompting me to carefully balance my routine meds with imposed dietary restrictions. It's a delicate dance; managing obesity through calorie counting becomes secondary to ensuring surgery safety and optimizing recovery. Assisting my body's strength training efforts through mindful eating, I find myself eschewing oils and certain dietary staples, all the while paying homage to the precise diet my oral health demands.

Can You Drink Water Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?

During my preparation for wisdom teeth surgery, I had an insightful discussion with my physician regarding hydration. She explained that while preparing for impacted wisdom teeth removal, I should consider myself similar to a runner prepping for a marathon; adequate hydration is essential, but timing is key. Following guidelines similar to those for a liquid diet before bariatric surgery, I could drink small amounts of water up until a few hours before my procedure, as recommended by the Mayo Clinic.

My physician emphasized that maintaining hydration up to that point is vital, yet it must be balanced meticulously to avoid complications during surgery. With the precision of an athlete protecting a knee from injury, I scheduled my last sips of water, ensuring they fell within the safe window established by my surgical team. The clear instructions provided relief, allowing me to focus on a smooth transition into the restrictions of the surgical day.

What Happens if You Eat Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?

If I defy the advice of my dentist and choose to eat before wisdom teeth removal, the consequences could be significant. For one, food in the stomach increases the risk of aspiration during sedation, which may lead to pneumonia—a complication that overshadows concerns like excessive bleeding or nerve damage commonly associated with the procedure itself.

Moreover, respecting a dietary regimen similar to a 2 week pre bariatric surgery diet is vital, as it primes the body for general anesthesia by minimizing stomach contents, akin to preparing the hip joint for replacement surgery; failing to do so can lead to a host of unwanted issues. On the eve of my operation, I intend to rely solely on broth and other clear liquids, avoiding any solid intake that might jeopardize my surgical outcome.

Managing Medications With Pre-Surgery Dietary Restrictions

Contemplating the intricate balance between maintaining my existing medication regimen and adhering to pre-surgery dietary instructions, I reviewed the findings of a randomized controlled trial that underscored the risk of interactions with sedatives. This evidence-based guidance became my north star, steering my decisions on medication management to both preempt paresthesia and optimize accessibility to my surgical site.

In the shadow of upcoming surgery, ensuring the success of postoperative socket preservation mandates precise coordination with my healthcare provider regarding my medications. With sedatives poised to play a significant role during my procedure, I took it upon myself to confirm that my intake of prescribed medications would not obstruct their efficacy or complicate the delicate balance needed for a successful outcome.

Understanding what to avoid is just half the battle; the path to a smooth surgery includes smart, proactive choices. Next up, let's zero in on the foods and drinks that will best prepare your body for the journey ahead.

Foods and Beverages to Prioritize Before Surgery

a table laden with smoothies, protein shakes, and bowls of soft, mushy foods beneath a bright kitchen light.

As I organize my final meals before embarking on the journey to remove my impacted wisdom teeth, I am acutely aware of the delicate interplay between nutrition and surgical preparedness. Integrating smoothies and protein shakes into my diet offers a beacon of easy-to-consume nutrition without the risk associated with solid foods. Wisdom suggests that, to lay the groundwork for a successful surgery, I opt for soft foods that nourish without irritating. And as I strategize my hydration, I'm sidestepping the typical sports drink loaded with acid and sugar, favoring benign fluids that support healing without disturbing the root of my forthcoming surgical procedure.

Smoothies and Protein Shakes for Easy Nutrition

Within my preoperative dietary repertoire, I hold smoothies in high esteem for their versatility and ability to pack a nutritional punch. Mindful of my dietary restrictions due to diabetes, I meticulously blend leafy greens with a moderate amount of fruits, steering clear of nut-based milk to avoid allergens and ensure a balanced, blood sugar-friendly meal.

Protein shakes serve as a cornerstone in my routine, offering both convenience and essential nourishment. To minimize irritation from the suction following surgery and accommodate the administration of nitrous oxide, I favor shakes that blend seamlessly with cooked oatmeal or bananas, creating a texture that's both soothing and easy to consume.

Soft Foods That Are Safe to Eat Before Surgery

In the seemingly endless list of precautions for my upcoming wisdom teeth removal, soft food has emerged as a key player. Scrambled eggs, for instance, are championed by the National Health Service as they are gentle on the stomach and rich in protein, which is vital for bolstering my immune system in preparation for what lies ahead.

Leading up to my surgery, it's critical to choose tender foods that minimize the risk of shortness of breath or other complications. I'm steering clear of red meat, which is tougher to chew and digest, potentially increasing the strain on my body when it should be in its most relaxed and primed state for healing.

  1. Scrambled eggs as a recommended soft food by the National Health Service.

  2. Avoiding red meat to reduce digestive strain and prevent post-operative complications.

Hydrating Properly With the Right Fluids

Staying hydrated is key to preparing for any surgery, including wisdom teeth removal. The goal is to maintain adequate fluid levels without compromising the effects of sedation. Favoring hydrating options that are gentle on the body, such as water or gelatin, can make a significant difference in both pain management and recovery.

Before my oral surgery, I was astutely conscious of how hydrating beverages could impact my blood sugar and insulin responses. Considering my need to control these factors meticulously, I chose fluids that would not exacerbate tooth loss or create additional stress on my system, ensuring my body remained in perfect harmony for the procedure.

  1. Opt for water and gelatin to maintain fluid levels conducive to sedation and pain management.

  2. Select hydration options carefully, considering their impact on insulin and potential for causing tooth loss.

With your pantry stocked with the right foods and beverages, you're one step closer to a successful wisdom teeth removal. Before you settle in for the night, let's ensure you're fully prepped for the day ahead.

Guidelines for the Night Before Wisdom Teeth Removal

a person peacefully sitting by the window, eating a bowl of cereal as the sun sets.

As dusk settles and the eve of my wisdom teeth removal approaches, my mind turns toward strategies for my last supper. There's a palpable mix of practical considerations—choosing easily digestible foods like cereal to fend off hypoglycemia, timing my meals to avoid dumping syndrome, and ensuring proper rest. With a heightened awareness of the explicit guidance from my dental office, I've jotted down their office phone number should any last-minute inquiries arise, particularly about my bone grafting procedure scheduled for the morrow. This evening is not just about physical preparation, as I also dedicate time to winding down, embracing a state of relaxation conducive to sleep. Tonight's routine is more than habitual—it is a linchpin in the strategy for a successful surgery and recovery.

Last Meal Tips: What to Eat and When

On the brink of my oral surgery, I pay careful attention to what enters my mouth, choosing foods that won’t linger too long in my system nor disrupt digestion. A soothing tomato soup, free of chunks or added textures that might necessitate the use of gauze post-operation, makes for an ideal evening meal, light yet satisfying.

Avoiding sauces that are overly rich or complex, I opt for simple broths that provide comfort and warmth. This strategy ensures my stomach is settled and not overly taxed, paving the way for a less complicated surgery and a swifter transition to recovery.

Preparing for the Next Day: Overnight Fasting Rules

Anticipating the effects of general anesthesia for my wisdom teeth extraction emphasizes the gravity of adhering to overnight fasting rules. The prospect of consuming anything substantial, like my go-to energy-boosting poultry sandwich, is firmly off the table, as my system needs to be devoid of solids to enhance the anesthesia's efficacy and safety.

I have meticulously arranged my medication schedule to align with the fasting requirements, carefully measuring out each gram. It's imperative that my stomach contents are minimal to prevent any complications during sedation, ensuring I wake up from the procedure focused on recovery, not discomfort.

Relaxation and Sleep: How to Rest Well Before Your Surgery

Ensuring a good night's sleep before the operation, I've aligned my pre weight loss surgery diet to exclude any late-night whey protein meals that might keep me awake. I've discovered that a light milkshake, devoid of heavy ingredients and excessive sugars that require chewing, does wonders in pampering my body into a state of calmness.

On this pre-surgery evening, I ensure that my environment exudes tranquility, a silent ode to the importance of restful slumber. Avoiding strenuous activity and foods that need chewing, I focus instead on relaxation techniques that usher comfort, allowing my mind and body to drift into a restorative sleep, primed for tomorrow's procedure.

Conclusion

Navigating your pre-surgery diet carefully is essential for ensuring a smooth wisdom teeth removal experience. Steering clear of hard, sticky, spicy, and sugary foods, as well as alcohol and tobacco, minimizes risks and assists in post-operative healing. Adhering to specific fasting guidelines tailored to the type of sedation enhances safety and the procedure's efficacy. Strategic meal planning, including proper hydration and selecting soft, nutritious foods, supports your body's preparation and recovery from the surgery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are wisdom teeth, and why do they need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often cause problems because there is insufficient space for them to fully emerge or they may grow in an improper position. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure to address these concerns.

How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

If you are experiencing pain, swelling, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or overcrowding, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. Based on their assessment, they can recommend the need for wisdom teeth removal. If you do not have a dentist, please call us and set up a FREE consultation and x-ray to determine a plan that is right for you.

Why are the third molars referred to as wisdom teeth?

According to the Oxford Dictionary, third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth because their common age of eruption is between 17 and 25. Aristotle explained it this way 2500 years ago!

"The last teeth to come in man are molars called ‘wisdom-teeth’, which come at the age of twenty years, in the case of both sexes. Cases have been known in women upwards of eighty years old where at the very close of life the wisdom-teeth have come up, causing great pain in their coming; and cases have been known of the like phenomenon in men too. This happens, when it does happen, in the case of people where the wisdom-teeth have not come up in early years."

— Aristotle, The History of Animals.

Why do we have third molars if we just remove them?

Third molars helped our human ancestors to grind plant tissue during a time when leafy greens were a more important part of our diet. It is thought that the skulls of our ancestors had larger jaws with more room to accommodate more teeth which helped them to chew foliage more efficiently. This was important because humans lack the ability to efficiently digest cellulose, an important part of plant cell walls. Since the advent of agriculture, almost 10,000 years ago, our diets have become softer and include a larger amount of sugar and high energy foods. These diets have resulted in smaller jaws and not enough room for the wisdom teeth. So when they begin to erupt, they are often painful or crooked and do not fit properly in the mouth. Their removal becomes mandatory for a healthy mouth.

What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?

The process for wisdom teeth removal involves a surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. It typically includes making an incision in the gum tissue, removing any bone that blocks access to the tooth, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces and then removing the pieces and suturing the incision. This procedure ensures the complete removal of the impacted or problematic wisdom tooth.

Does everyone have 4 wisdom teeth?

No, although 4 is the most common number (one in each corner of the mouth); some people have 1, 2 or 3 wisdom teeth and some people don’t have any at all! In rare cases people develop additional teeth in the area of the wisdom teeth call ‘para-molars’ and may have 5 or more!

Does wisdom teeth removal require anesthesia or sedation?

Wisdom teeth removal usually requires some form of anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will discuss the options with you, which may include local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth or general anesthesia to render you unconscious during the surgery. We provide an IV sedation for each patient we see. This guarantees you maximum comfort, no memory of the procedure and a faster recovery.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but it generally takes about a week to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, such as taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs, can aid in a smoother recovery process.

What are the potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal?

Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and temporary or permanent jaw stiffness. However, these complications are relatively rare, and your dental professional will take necessary precautions to minimize the risks.

Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?

Initially, you’ll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the surgery to facilitate healing. As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet. It’s important to avoid straws and hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction sites. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines to follow.

Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?

Prior to wisdom teeth removal, your dental professional will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation. These instructions include: fasting 5-6 hours before the surgery, avoid smoking or using a straw post-surgery, take regularly prescribed medications, apply ice packs, maintain proper oral hygiene, and call us if you encounter any problems on our 24/7 after care nurse line. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.

Will I experience pain during or after the removal?

The procedure itself is usually painless due to anesthesia or sedation. However, it is common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your dentist may prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. Additionally, using home remedies such as applying ice packs and rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.

What are the alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?

In certain cases where the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any problems, they may not need to be removed. Regular monitoring and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure they do not cause complications in the future. However, if extraction is recommended, it is typically the most effective solution to prevent potential issues associated with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.

What does it mean that a wisdom tooth is ‘impacted’?

Your dentist will classify a tooth by the degree to which it has been able to grow out of your jaw bone. If a tooth remains trapped in the bone, usually by a lack of space or close proximity to other teeth, the tooth is considered to be ‘impacted’. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and need to be removed, you will experience some degree of swelling around the lower wisdom teeth. Sometimes patient’s refer to this as the “chipmunk effect” because after surgery you look like you are packing nuts in your cheeks like a chipmunk!

When is the best time to remove the wisdom teeth?

This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your doctor will help you decide when the time is right - They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 25% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.- If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.- Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.- Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.- …And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!

What could happen if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth when my doctor recommends that I do?

If you wait until your adult years to remove your wisdom teeth several things become more complicated about your surgery.- First, at some point in your late-late teens or early twenties, your lower wisdom teeth will grow root tips and finish developing. Once this happens, the risk of the root tips interfering with the nerve in your mandible raises the risk of temporary or permanent numbness in your lower lip and chin.- The older you become, generally the more dense your bone becomes. Increased bone density will increase the difficulty of removing the wisdom teeth and could cause additional swelling and healing time.- Younger patients heal faster and with less complications overall than older patients. Younger patients generally experience less dry socket, pain and swelling than older patients.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket (local alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is lost from the hole left in the jaw after a wisdom tooth is extracted. It generally results in a dull, uncomfortable ache. It is easily treated in the office where you had your wisdom teeth removed.

What can be done to prevent a dry socket?

We see very few dry sockets in our practice! We are excited to provide you with a state of the art procedure called Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to reduce your chances of dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100! We offer this procedure at no charge to you! After placing your IV, we will draw a small amount of blood. That blood will be put into a centrifuge and spun very fast until it separates into distinct layers. One of the layers, the Platelet Rich layer contains numerous white blood cells, neutrophils and other key components of healing. This portion of your blood will be put back into the socket to stimulate bone growth and healing, reduce pain and inflammation and dramatically reduce your chance of dry socket. Dr. Hendrickson believes PRF is so beneficial that he provides this service to all of his patients at no cost. Thanks to PRF treatment we see a very small number of dry socket.

Where are you located?

We have 2 locations. Our Provo & Murray offices are located...

Provo Location:

2230 N University Pkwy #8A

Provo, Utah

84604

(801) 370-0050

Murray Location:

5888 S 900 E #101

Murray, UT

84121

(801) 370-0050

What are your hours?

We are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am -5:00 pm MST.

Surgeries are scheduled on Thursdays (Provo) and Fridays (Murray).

Provo Location:

2230 N University Pkwy #8A

Provo, Utah

84604

(801) 370-0050

Murray Location:

5888 S 900 E #101

Murray, UT

84121

(801) 370-0050

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