Should You Eat Before Getting Wisdom Teeth Pulled
Getting your wisdom teeth pulled can be a daunting experience. It's a common dental procedure that many people undergo at some point in their lives. But one question that often comes up is whether or not you should eat before the procedure. In this article, we'll explore the answer to this question and provide some tips for preparing for your wisdom teeth extraction.
Why You Might Want to Avoid Eating Before Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled
If you're scheduled to have your wisdom teeth pulled, you might be wondering if you should eat beforehand. The answer to this question depends on a few factors. One reason why you might want to avoid eating before your procedure is because of the anesthesia. If you're going to be put under general anesthesia, then it's important to avoid eating or drinking anything for at least six hours before your procedure. This is because the anesthesia can cause nausea and vomiting, which can be dangerous if you've recently eaten.
Why You Might Want to Eat Before Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled
On the other hand, if you're only going to be under local anesthesia, then you might want to eat a light meal before your procedure. This is because local anesthesia doesn't affect your entire body like general anesthesia does. You'll still be able to eat and drink after your procedure, so it's not necessary to fast beforehand. In fact, eating a light meal beforehand can help to prevent dizziness or lightheadedness during the procedure.
What to Eat Before Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction
If you've decided to eat before your wisdom teeth extraction, it's important to choose the right types of foods. You don't want to eat anything that's too heavy or difficult to digest, as this can cause nausea or discomfort during the procedure. Some good options include:
- Smoothies or protein shakes
- Yogurt or pudding
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Soup or broth
- Juice or electrolyte drinks
It's best to avoid solid foods, as these can be difficult to chew and swallow after your extraction. Stick to liquids or soft foods that won't put too much strain on your mouth.
What to Avoid Before Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Just as important as knowing what to eat before your wisdom teeth extraction is knowing what to avoid. There are certain types of foods that can interfere with the healing process or cause discomfort after your procedure. Some things to avoid include:
- Spicy foods
- Acidic foods
- Crunchy or hard foods
- Alcohol or caffeine
- Sugary or high-carbohydrate foods
These types of foods can irritate your mouth, cause inflammation, or interfere with the clotting process. Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods for the first few days after your procedure to ensure a smooth recovery.
Preparing for Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Whether you decide to eat before your wisdom teeth extraction or not, there are some other things you can do to prepare for the procedure. Here are some tips:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you won't be able to drive under the influence of anesthesia.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the appointment.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater in case you feel cold in the dentist's office.
- Follow all pre-operative instructions given to you by the dentist or oral surgeon.
- Fill any prescriptions for pain medication or antibiotics ahead of time.
In Conclusion
Getting your wisdom teeth pulled can be a stressful experience, but with the right preparation, you can minimize discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery. Whether or not you decide to eat before your procedure depends on the type of anesthesia you'll be receiving and your personal preferences. If you do choose to eat beforehand, stick to light, easy-to-digest foods and avoid anything that's too spicy or crunchy. And remember to follow all pre-operative instructions given to you by your dentist or oral surgeon.
