Should You Brush Your Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The short answer is yes, you should brush your teeth before your wisdom teeth removal, but with a few important caveats. While maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, the way you brush before surgery is critical to avoid complications. This post will delve into the specifics, answering common questions surrounding this pre-operative dental care.
What Happens if I Don't Brush Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
While it might seem counterintuitive to brush before a procedure involving your mouth, neglecting oral hygiene before surgery can increase the risk of infection. Bacteria in your mouth can enter the surgical site and hinder the healing process, potentially leading to complications like dry socket (alveolar osteitis), a painful condition affecting the extraction site.
How Should I Brush My Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The key is gentle brushing. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which could irritate your gums and potentially cause bleeding. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and focus on a gentle, thorough cleaning. It's best to brush only with water to minimize the risk of accidentally swallowing toothpaste, which could cause issues during the surgery. You might want to rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing if directed by your oral surgeon or dentist.
When Should I Brush My Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
You should brush your teeth on the morning of your surgery, as usual, using the gentle technique described above. There's no need to skip brushing. It’s far better to have a clean mouth entering the procedure.
Can I Use Mouthwash Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Generally, it's recommended to use a simple, alcohol-free mouthwash after gentle brushing. Check with your oral surgeon or dentist first, as some mouthwashes may not be recommended before surgery. Avoid using strong mouthwashes containing alcohol as these could irritate the mouth further, and there is no evidence of an infection-reducing benefit when used on the day of surgery.
What About Eating and Drinking Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Your surgeon will likely provide specific instructions about eating and drinking before your procedure. Generally, it is advisable to avoid eating or drinking at least several hours prior, as it could complicate the process and lead to difficulties during or after the surgery. This is different from brushing your teeth as you do this in the morning, long before the procedure begins.
Should I Brush My Teeth After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
After your wisdom teeth are removed, you'll need to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions carefully. These will likely include specific guidance on when and how to resume brushing, usually after the initial healing period. The process will be much gentler than normal; and you’ll need to be careful around the extraction sites.
In Conclusion:
Brushing your teeth gently before wisdom teeth removal is important for maintaining good oral hygiene and reducing the risk of post-operative infection. Always follow your dentist or oral surgeon's pre-operative instructions, and remember, a gentle approach is key.
