The short answer is: yes, you should brush your teeth before your wisdom teeth removal, but with a few important caveats. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, even on the day of surgery, as it minimizes the risk of infection. However, the how is just as important as the whether.
What Should I Do Before Brushing?
Before you brush, carefully check your surgeon's pre-operative instructions. Some surgeons might have specific recommendations regarding oral hygiene on the day of surgery. Their instructions always take precedence.
How Should I Brush My Teeth Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Brush gently! Avoid vigorous scrubbing, especially around the wisdom teeth area. A soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal. Focus on thoroughly cleaning all other areas of your mouth, and be extra gentle around the wisdom teeth. Any bleeding or irritation in this area can increase the risk of post-surgical complications. Use a fluoride toothpaste as usual.
What If I Have a Lot of Swelling or Bleeding?
If you experience significant swelling or bleeding in the wisdom teeth area before surgery, contact your oral surgeon immediately. They might advise against brushing in that specific area to avoid further irritation.
Can I Use Mouthwash Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Generally, it's recommended to use an alcohol-free mouthwash before your wisdom teeth extraction. Alcohol can dry out your mouth and irritate the tissues. However, again, always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions. They might prefer you avoid mouthwash altogether on the day of the surgery.
What About After the Wisdom Teeth Removal?
After your wisdom teeth are removed, your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions on post-operative care, including when and how to resume brushing your teeth. You’ll likely need to use a soft-bristled brush and avoid the extraction sites for several days. Gentle rinsing with saltwater is usually recommended in the initial post-operative phase.
Is It Okay to Floss Before Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Flossing is generally discouraged the day of wisdom teeth removal. The risk of injuring the area is too high and can cause bleeding that may interfere with the surgery.
Should I Worry About Food Particles Getting Stuck?
While you should brush gently, it's important to remove any food particles that could potentially contribute to infection. If you're concerned about food getting stuck near your wisdom teeth, you can gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water before brushing.
In summary: Brushing your teeth before wisdom teeth removal is usually fine, but proceed with caution, gentleness, and always defer to your oral surgeon's specific instructions. Preventing infection is paramount both before and after the procedure. Following your surgeon's advice is crucial for a smooth and successful recovery.
