Wisdom teeth removal is a common surgical procedure in oral surgery. To ensure the smooth progress of the surgery and rapid recovery after the operation, patients need to make sufficient preparations before the surgery. This guide will provide a detailed introduction to the preparations that should be made before wisdom teeth removal, including oral hygiene preparation, dietary adjustments, physical health assessment, psychological preparation, preoperative examination, and treatment plan formulation.
Oral Hygiene Preparation
Before wisdom teeth removal, patients should strengthen oral hygiene several days in advance. Using correct brushing methods and dental floss to thoroughly clean teeth and tooth gaps can reduce food residue and bacterial growth. This not only helps prevent postoperative infection but also ensures clear visualization of the surgical area, facilitating the doctor’s operation.
Correct Brushing Techniques: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth at least twice a day (morning and night) and floss once a day to remove plaque and food residue between teeth.
Antiseptic Mouthwash: Use an antiseptic mouthwash recommended by your dentist to further reduce the bacterial load in the oral cavity.
Dietary Adjustments
Before wisdom teeth removal, patients should avoid spicy, irritating foods, and alcohol, which may stimulate the oral mucosa and aggravate postoperative reactions. It is recommended to choose a light and digestible diet, such as soft food and liquids, to reduce postoperative chewing difficulties and oral discomfort.
Avoid Spicy and Irritating Foods: Foods like chili, pepper, and spicy sauces should be avoided.
Choose Soft and Liquid Foods: Examples include porridge, soup, yogurt, and soft fruits like bananas.
Do Not Fast Before Surgery: Eating before surgery can prevent hypoglycemia and other adverse reactions during the operation. However, avoid eating too much or too greasy foods. It is advisable to eat a light meal 1-2 hours before surgery.
Physical Health Assessment
Before wisdom teeth removal, patients should undergo a comprehensive physical health assessment, including blood pressure, blood sugar, coagulation function, and other indicators. For patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, they should inform the doctor in advance and adjust their medication dosage as prescribed to ensure surgical safety.
Blood Pressure Control: Ensure blood pressure is below 140/90 mmHg.
Blood Sugar Control: Maintain blood sugar levels below 8 mmol/L.
Coagulation Function: Check coagulation function to avoid excessive bleeding during surgery.
Inform of Chronic Diseases and Medication History: This helps the doctor formulate a personalized surgical plan.
Psychological Preparation
Although wisdom teeth removal is a minor surgery, patients may still be affected by tension and anxiety, which can impact the surgical process and postoperative recovery. Therefore, patients should make psychological preparations before surgery, maintaining a relaxed and calm mindset.
Deep Breathing and Meditation: These methods can help relieve stress and anxiety.
Communicate with the Doctor: Understand the surgical process and possible risks to enhance confidence.
Positive Thinking: Maintain a positive attitude and believe that the surgery will be successful.
Preoperative Examination and Treatment Plan Formulation
Before wisdom teeth removal, the dentist will conduct a comprehensive oral examination of the patient, including taking X-rays or CT scans to understand the position, shape, and relationship of the wisdom teeth with surrounding tissues. Based on the examination results, the dentist will formulate an appropriate surgical plan and inform the patient of possible situations encountered during the surgery and postoperative precautions.
Oral Examination: The dentist will check the condition of the wisdom teeth and surrounding tissues.
Imaging Examination: X-rays or CT scans are taken to assess the complexity of the surgery and plan the surgical approach.
Treatment Plan Formulation: The dentist will explain the surgical plan, including the surgical approach, anesthesia method, and expected postoperative recovery time.
Popular Science on Wisdom Teeth Removal
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third molars, usually located at the back of the mouth, and are the last teeth to erupt. Due to the limited space in the oral cavity, wisdom teeth often fail to erupt normally or become impacted, leading to repeated inflammation, pain, and even damage to adjacent teeth. Therefore, in some cases, wisdom teeth need to be removed.
Indications for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth are partially or completely covered by bone or soft tissue, they are difficult to clean and prone to infection.
Recurrent Inflammation: If wisdom teeth repeatedly cause inflammation, pain, and swelling, they should be removed.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Wisdom teeth may crowd or damage adjacent teeth, affecting their health and function.
Cyst Formation: In some cases, wisdom teeth may develop into cysts, which require surgical removal.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
After wisdom teeth removal, patients should follow the doctor’s advice for care and follow-up visits to promote wound healing and oral health. This includes:
Avoid Strenuous Exercise: Rest for 1-2 days after surgery to avoid excessive physical activity.
Eat Soft and Cold Foods: Choose soft and cold foods to reduce discomfort and bleeding.
Use Antiseptic Mouthwash: Use antiseptic mouthwash as recommended by the doctor to prevent infection.
Regular Follow-up Visits: Visit the dentist regularly for follow-up checks to ensure proper healing.
Conclusion
In summary, wisdom teeth removal requires sufficient preparations before surgery, including oral hygiene preparation, dietary adjustments, physical health assessment, psychological preparation, and preoperative examination and treatment plan formulation. By following these preparations, patients can ensure the smooth progress of the surgery and rapid recovery after the operation. Remember, wisdom teeth removal is a common surgical procedure, and with professional care and proper preparation, it can be performed safely and effectively.
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