Should I Brush My Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Surgery
Introduction
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow at the back of your mouth. They usually emerge in your late teens or early twenties. However, not everyone develops these teeth, and some people may have them, but they do not cause any problems. However, in some cases, wisdom teeth can cause pain and discomfort, and this may necessitate their removal. If you are scheduled for wisdom teeth surgery, you may wonder whether or not you should brush your teeth before the procedure. In this article, we will explore this question in detail.
Why Do People Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth may cause several problems that may require their removal. These include:
- Tooth decay and cavities: Wisdom teeth are hard to clean, and food particles may get trapped between the teeth, leading to decay and cavities.
- Gum disease: The presence of wisdom teeth may make it harder to clean your mouth properly, leading to gum disease.
- Damage to adjacent teeth: The growth of wisdom teeth may cause adjacent teeth to shift, leading to bite problems and jaw pain.
- Cysts and tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth may develop cysts or tumors, which may require surgical removal.
Why Clean Your Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
It is essential to clean your teeth before wisdom teeth surgery to prevent infection and promote faster healing. Bacteria in your mouth can cause infection after surgery, and brushing your teeth helps to remove these bacteria. Additionally, food particles in your mouth can cause a foul taste and bad breath after surgery, and brushing your teeth helps to eliminate these particles.
When Should You Brush Your Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
You should brush your teeth before wisdom teeth surgery on the day of the procedure. However, you should avoid brushing your teeth immediately before the surgery as the mouthwash used during the procedure may react with the toothpaste and cause discomfort. Additionally, you should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least six hours before the surgery to reduce the risk of vomiting and aspiration.
How Should You Brush Your Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
You should brush your teeth before wisdom teeth surgery using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth gently but thoroughly, paying attention to the back teeth and the gum line. Rinse your mouth with water and spit out the toothpaste. Do not swallow the toothpaste or rinse your mouth with mouthwash immediately before the surgery.
Other Tips for Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Surgery
Aside from brushing your teeth, there are other things you can do to prepare for wisdom teeth surgery, including:
- Wash your face and hands before the surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
- Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing on the day of the surgery.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery as you may feel groggy and disoriented from the anesthesia.
- Stock up on soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and pudding as you may have difficulty eating solid foods after the surgery.
- Follow all the pre-operative instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon to reduce the risk of complications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, brushing your teeth before wisdom teeth surgery is essential to prevent infection and promote faster healing. However, you should avoid brushing your teeth immediately before the surgery and follow all the pre-operative instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of complications and ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.