Do I Brush My Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The short answer is yes, you should brush your teeth before your wisdom teeth removal, but with a crucial caveat: gently. The morning of your surgery, you should brush and floss as you normally would, but avoid any vigorous scrubbing or aggressive flossing, especially around the area where your wisdom teeth are located.
Why is brushing important before surgery? Good oral hygiene reduces the risk of infection. A clean mouth minimizes the bacteria present, lowering the chances of complications after the procedure. This is particularly important as your mouth will be healing and more susceptible to infection in the days following your wisdom teeth removal.
However, the gentleness is key. The reason for this is twofold:
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Trauma: Vigorous brushing could irritate the gums near the wisdom teeth, potentially causing bleeding or swelling before the procedure even begins. This isn't ideal before a surgical intervention.
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Medication: Some pre-operative instructions might include avoiding certain medications or foods, and vigorous brushing could inadvertently lead to minor injuries that could affect your ability to follow these instructions precisely.
What if I have an early morning appointment?
If your wisdom teeth removal is scheduled very early in the morning, you might choose to simply rinse your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash instead of brushing. This still provides some level of cleaning without the risk of causing any irritation. However, if you have time, gentle brushing is still preferred. Always follow your oral surgeon's specific instructions as they may have unique recommendations.
What about after wisdom teeth removal?
Brushing after surgery is equally crucial but requires a different approach. You'll need to wait until the numbness wears off and your surgeon provides instructions on how to properly clean your mouth post-surgery. This usually involves gentle brushing and rinsing with a prescribed mouthwash. Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully is paramount for proper healing and preventing complications.
What if I'm nervous and haven't brushed?
Don't panic! While good oral hygiene is beneficial, your surgeon will prioritize your overall health and safety. If for some reason you missed brushing your teeth before the surgery, communicate this to your surgeon or dental team. They can address any concerns and proceed accordingly. It's always better to communicate than to feel anxious and unprepared.
Should I use a specific type of toothbrush?
Use your regular toothbrush, but focus on gentleness, especially around the area of the impacted wisdom teeth. Avoid using an electric toothbrush, as this may be too forceful before surgery.
Remember, always follow the specific instructions provided by your oral surgeon or dentist. These instructions might vary depending on your individual circumstances and the complexity of the procedure. Their advice overrides any general guidance.
