People who need to have their wisdom teeth out have a lot of questions about how the extraction, or tooth removal, is performed. It is natural to feel concerned about having oral surgery, but if you care for your teeth before and after the extraction, you can have a smoother procedure. Here are some pointers
Before You Have Surgery
The first thing you need to know is that the night before you have your wisdom teeth extracted, you'll want to stop eating and drinking by midnight. Wisdom teeth have to be removed with general anesthesia, so you don't want anything on your stomach. You will want to wear something comfortable to the dentist's office, such as leggings or sweatpants and tennis shoes. Also, be sure that someone else goes with you to the dentist's office because you will not be able to drive after anesthesia for 24 hours.
After the Surgery
Once the dentist or oral surgeon has removed your wisdom teeth, there are some steps you need to take at home to make sure you don't have complications. Your mouth will be packed with gauze that you need to leave in for a period of time, usually 24 hours after surgery. You will also have ice packs that you need to use for a few days to keep the swelling down after surgery.
Once the first 24 hours after your wisdom tooth extraction pass, you need to rinse your mouth out with salt and warm water five or six times each day. This helps with healing. Be sure that you are eating a soft diet so that you take it easy on your teeth. Some people prefer to eat warm foods after surgery, like mashed potatoes or soup. You may want cold foods instead, such as Jell-O, ice cream, or cottage cheese. After a few days, you'll be able to return to your normal diet.
Be sure to be on the lookout for severe pain, fever, and swelling. If you think there may be something wrong once your procedure is complete, it never hurts to give the dentist a call.
Oral Surgeon Gilroy • About South Valley Oral & Facial Surgery We believe your smile is a work of art; it deserves as much care and attention as any masterpiece. Give us a call in San Jose, Gilroy or Los Banos today! South Valley Oral and Facial Surgery, 5595 Winfield Blvd, Suite 202, San Jose, CA 95123-1220; 408-479-9449; svofs.com; 10/14/2024; Key Phrases: dental implants San Jose CA;