Should I Brush My Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery that many people undergo. It involves extracting the third molars, which are located at the back of the mouth. This procedure is often necessary because wisdom teeth can cause various dental problems, such as overcrowding, impaction, infection, and decay. However, before you undergo wisdom teeth removal, you may wonder if you should brush your teeth. In this article, we'll explore this question and provide some helpful tips for preparing for wisdom teeth removal.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Before we answer the question of whether you should brush your teeth before wisdom teeth removal, let's first discuss what happens during this procedure. Wisdom teeth removal is typically performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist who has specialized training in oral surgery. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, which means you'll be awake but numb. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used, which means you'll be asleep.
During the procedure, the oral surgeon will make an incision in your gums to access the wisdom teeth. If the teeth are fully erupted, they can be easily removed with forceps. However, if the teeth are impacted or partially erupted, the surgeon may need to remove some bone or tissue to extract them. Once the teeth are removed, the surgeon will stitch up the incisions and place gauze over them to help stop any bleeding.
Why Brushing Your Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal is Important?
Now that you know what happens during wisdom teeth removal, let's answer the question of whether you should brush your teeth before this procedure. The short answer is yes, you should brush your teeth before wisdom teeth removal. Brushing your teeth is an essential part of oral hygiene, and it can help prevent infection and other complications after the procedure.
When you brush your teeth, you remove plaque and bacteria from your mouth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth and gums, and it contains harmful bacteria that can cause cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. By brushing your teeth before wisdom teeth removal, you reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, which can help prevent infection and promote healing after the procedure.
When Should You Brush Your Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Now that you know why you should brush your teeth before wisdom teeth removal, let's talk about when you should do it. You should brush your teeth as you normally would, twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. However, you should avoid brushing your teeth immediately before the procedure.
Brushing your teeth too close to the time of your surgery can cause bleeding and make it harder for the oral surgeon to see and access your wisdom teeth. Instead, you should brush your teeth at least an hour before the procedure. This will give your mouth enough time to recover from any bleeding or irritation caused by brushing.
Other Tips for Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Aside from brushing your teeth, there are other things you can do to prepare for wisdom teeth removal. Here are some tips:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you may be too groggy to drive yourself.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of the procedure.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least eight hours before the procedure, as this can cause complications with anesthesia.
- Inform your oral surgeon of any medications you're taking, as well as any health conditions you have.
Conclusion
In conclusion, brushing your teeth before wisdom teeth removal is important for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing infection. However, you should avoid brushing your teeth immediately before the procedure and instead brush them at least an hour before. By following these tips and preparing for your procedure, you can ensure a smooth and successful wisdom teeth removal.