Am I Allowed To Eat Before Wisdom Teeth Removal
Introduction
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure. It involves removing one or more of the four molars located at the back of your mouth. These teeth are called wisdom teeth because they usually emerge in your late teens or early twenties, when you are said to have gained wisdom.
If your dentist has recommended that you have your wisdom teeth removed, you may be wondering if you are allowed to eat before the procedure. The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on various factors.
Factors Affecting Eating Before Wisdom Teeth Removal
The following factors may affect whether or not you can eat before your wisdom teeth removal:
- The type of anesthesia you will receive
- Your overall health and medical history
- The time of day your procedure is scheduled
- The complexity of your procedure
Anesthesia Type
The type of anesthesia you will receive will determine whether or not you can eat before your wisdom teeth removal. If you are having local anesthesia or sedation, you may be allowed to eat a light meal a few hours before the procedure. However, if you are having general anesthesia, you will need to fast for at least eight hours before the procedure.
Overall Health and Medical History
Your overall health and medical history can also affect whether or not you can eat before your wisdom teeth removal. If you have any medical conditions that require you to fast before a procedure, such as diabetes or heart disease, you may need to fast before your wisdom teeth removal as well.
Time of Day
The time of day your procedure is scheduled can also affect whether or not you can eat before your wisdom teeth removal. If your procedure is scheduled for early in the morning, you may need to fast overnight. If your procedure is scheduled for later in the day, you may be allowed to eat a light meal a few hours before the procedure.
Complexity of Procedure
The complexity of your procedure can also affect whether or not you can eat before your wisdom teeth removal. If your procedure is straightforward, you may be allowed to eat a light meal a few hours before the procedure. However, if your procedure is more complex, you may need to fast for a longer period of time.
What to Eat Before Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you are allowed to eat before your wisdom teeth removal, it is important to choose foods that are easy to digest and do not require a lot of chewing. Some good options include:
- Soups and broths
- Yogurt and other soft dairy products
- Smoothies and milkshakes
- Applesauce and other pureed fruits
- Mashed potatoes and other soft vegetables
What to Avoid Before Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you are not allowed to eat before your wisdom teeth removal, it is important to avoid any food or drink that could interfere with the procedure or cause complications. Some things to avoid include:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Solid foods
- Fatty or fried foods
- Sugary foods and drinks
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not you are allowed to eat before your wisdom teeth removal depends on various factors, including the type of anesthesia you will receive, your overall health and medical history, the time of day your procedure is scheduled, and the complexity of your procedure. If you are allowed to eat, it is important to choose easy-to-digest foods that do not require a lot of chewing. If you are not allowed to eat, it is important to avoid any food or drink that could interfere with the procedure or cause complications.