Preparing for 2 Wisdom Teeth Removal: What to Expect and How to Get Ready
I’m sure by now you have already received the news that you’ll need to have two wisdom teeth removed. For many, this can be an unpleasant, discomforting, and even terrifying experience. However, with the right mindset and preparations, it doesn’t have to be as bad as you think.
To help you through this process, we have compiled a list of things you should expect, as well as tips on how to prepare for your 2 wisdom teeth removal procedure.
What to Expect Before the Procedure
Before your wisdom teeth removal, your dental healthcare provider will give you a complete overview of the process. You will receive instructions on what to do before and after the surgery, as well as the risks and benefits of the procedure. Specifically, there are a few things you should expect:
1. Consultation and X-rays: Your dental healthcare provider will examine the affected teeth and take X-rays to determine the positioning and shape of the teeth.
2. Anesthesia: Depending on your preference, you may receive local, general, or IV anesthesia. This will ensure that you don’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
3. Tooth removal: The procedure usually lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the surgery. The dental healthcare provider will make an incision and remove the impacted wisdom teeth.
How to Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
To make the procedure as comfortable as possible, it’s essential to prepare well ahead of time. Here are some tips that can help:
1. Plan ahead: Make sure to schedule a few days off work or avoid any strenuous activities that may strain the mouth’s tissues.
2. Stock up on the essentials: Purchase soft foods such as soup, yoghurt, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hard and crunchy foods as they can damage the surgical area.
3. Prepare for pain and swelling: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Apply ice packs to the cheeks for the first 24-48 hours to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Arrange for a ride home: Since you’ll receive anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the procedure, there are a few things you should expect:
1. Recovery time: The recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the surgery. In most cases, it takes about a week to ten days for full recovery.
2. Postoperative instructions: Your dental healthcare provider will give you a list of instructions to follow, including when to start eating and how best to clean the surgical area.
3. Pain and swelling: It’s normal to experience some pain and swelling after the surgery, but this should subside within a few days.
Conclusion
While wisdom teeth removal can be a daunting process, it doesn’t have to be. With proper preparation and care, you can make the experience less unpleasant and ensure quick and smooth recovery. Remember to follow your dental healthcare provider’s instructions, maintain proper oral hygiene, and keep up with all scheduled follow-up appointments.
