Having Your Wisdom Teeth Removed? Here’s How to Prepare

Gearing up to have a wisdom tooth removed? You’re not alone. Around five million people have their wisdom teeth removed each year in the United States, incurring treatment costs of around three billion dollars. Knowing how to prepare, including what foods to have available after, what to expect with anesthesia, and what to watch for during recovery can make the whole experience smoother and less stressful.

Read on to get practical tips and answers to frequently asked questions that clarify what lies ahead and where to find a dentist who offers the best wisdom teeth extraction in Los Angeles. 

Five Things You Need to Do Before Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure

Preparing for wisdom tooth surgery takes more than just marking the date on your calendar. It includes taking the right steps now to make your procedure and recovery easier. Here’s what to focus on before the big day when visiting the best oral surgeon in Los Angeles:

1. Attend Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction Pre-Op Appointment

Your pre-operative appointment is an opportunity to discuss with your oral surgeon exactly what to expect during your wisdom tooth extraction. Some of the things you may want to ask about include: 

• Anesthesia options: Including whether local numbing, dental sedation, or general anesthesia is appropriate, as well as the pain relief plan after your procedure. 
• You’ll also want to know what to wear and bring on the day of surgery. Most offices recommend wearing comfortable clothing, avoiding jewelry or makeup, and leaving valuables at home. 
• Clarify how many teeth will be removed and whether any are impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth may affect the length of your procedure and your recovery. 
• Be sure to discuss all the medications you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, vitamins, and supplements, so they can ensure that none will interfere with your anesthesia or recovery. 
• Lastly, you can ask how long the procedure is expected to take, what the recovery timeline looks like, and if you’ll need follow-up treatments afterward.

2. Prepare Yourself for Surgery

Your pre-op appointment is necessary because preparing yourself for wisdom tooth surgery starts with following your dentist’s instructions. Some of the most common instructions will include: 

• Avoid food and drink for several hours before your surgery if you’re having sedation or general anesthesia. This helps control nausea and other complications while you’re under anesthesia. 
• Limit yourself if you smoke, vape, or use tobacco products, since they slow healing and significantly raise your risk of dry socket, a painful condition where the protective blood clot comes loose too soon. 

3. Prepare Your Home for Recovery

Preparing your home before wisdom tooth surgery will make recovery easier and more comfortable: 

• Start by stocking your kitchen with soft, easy-to-eat foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, soups, and even a little ice cream. Having them ready means you won’t have to scramble for meals when you’re sore or tired. 
• Set up a cozy recovery spot with plenty of pillows, warm blankets, and entertainment, whether that’s a good book, your favorite shows, or music. Also consider getting extra-long charging cords for your phone or tablet, so it’s easier to reach when you need to charge. 
• On the day of surgery, wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as sweatpants and a T-shirt, to help you relax afterward.

4. Understand Post-Surgery Aftercare

Taking care of yourself after wisdom tooth surgery is just as important as preparing beforehand. Here are a few tips to keep in mind: 

• Reduce facial swelling: Apply an ice pack or a cold gel pouch to the side of your face for 15 to 20 minutes at a time during the first 24 to 48 hours, then switch to warm compresses to help ease stiffness. 
• Prevent infection: Keep your mouth clean, but be gentle. Wait 24 hours before rinsing with warm salt water, and when you do, tip your head side to side instead of swishing. Avoid brushing directly over the surgical sites. If you use mouthwash, choose an alcohol-free option and let it sit in your mouth without swirling. 
• Avoid dry socket: Skip straws, alcohol, smoking, and strenuous activity for several days, since all of these can dislodge the healing blood clot and cause a painful complication called dry socket. 

5. Know What to Watch For: Risks & When to Call

Even with a smooth surgery, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs to look out for during recovery: 

• Dry socket: One of the most common complications is dry socket, which can happen if the protective blood clot at the extraction site is lost too soon. If you notice sharp or increasing pain a few days after surgery, a foul odor, or visible bone in the socket, call your dentist right away. 
• Infection: If you experience signs of infection, such as prolonged bleeding, persistent swelling, fever, or unusual discharge, seek medical advice. 
• Nerve damage: While rare, more serious issues can occur, like nerve damage that causes numbness or tingling, sinus communication for upper wisdom teeth, or injury to nearby teeth or bone. These are risks that are more likely with impacted or lower extractions. 

Finding the Best Oral Surgeon in Los Angeles for Wisdom Teeth Extraction

At Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Group, our board-certified oral surgeons, Dr. Lohiya, Dr. Estess, and Dr. Donlevy, bring years of specialized training in complex extractions, ensuring that whether your wisdom teeth are impacted, partially erupted, or causing other dental issues, you receive the safest and most comfortable care possible. 

With convenient locations in Hermosa Beach, Westchester, and Culver City, we make it easy to access expert treatment close to home. Our goal is to be your trusted partner in maintaining not only a healthy mouth but also a confident smile for years to come. This is why we take the time to explain your options, discuss anesthesia choices, and walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you feel informed and at ease. 

Ready to get relief from wisdom teeth pain with help from the best oral surgeon in Los Angeles?