Reviewed By Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Your wisdom tooth surgery is coming up. Before the appointment, there are a few things you should do and a few things you should avoid to help the procedure go smoothly and make recovery easier.
Legacy Surgery offers wisdom tooth removal in Harrisonburg and Staunton, VA.
Table of Contents
What to Do in the Days Before Wisdom Tooth Removal
A little preparation ahead of time makes the procedure day and recovery period much easier.
Schedule Time to Recover
Most patients need a few days of rest after wisdom tooth removal. Taking time away from work, school, or strenuous activity allows the surgical area to heal properly.
Prepare Soft Foods at Home
Chewing can be difficult during the first few days after surgery. Soft foods are easier to eat and less likely to irritate the surgical sites.
Common options include:
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Mashed potatoes
- Smooth soups
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies
Having these foods ready ahead of time helps you avoid unnecessary trips out while recovering.
Arrange Transportation
If IV sedation or general anesthesia is used, you will not be able to drive after the procedure. A responsible adult must take you home and stay with you for the first few hours.
Follow Medication Instructions
Some patients may need to stop certain medications before surgery, while others may be prescribed medication to take beforehand. Always follow the instructions provided by your oral surgeon.
What to Do the Night Before Wisdom Tooth Surgery
The night before surgery usually involves a few simple steps.
Most patients should:
- Eat dinner at a normal time unless told otherwise
- Stop eating or drinking after the instructed cutoff time
- Get a full night of sleep
If sedation or anesthesia will be used, fasting is typically required for several hours before the procedure. Make sure to review your instructions so that you know when to stop eating and drinking.
What to Avoid Before Wisdom Tooth Removal
Certain habits can increase surgical risks or interfere with anesthesia. Avoiding them helps ensure a smoother procedure.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can interfere with anesthesia and medications used during surgery. It should be avoided the day before the procedure.
Avoid Smoking or Vaping
Smoking restricts blood flow and slows healing. It also increases the risk of dry socket after tooth extraction. Patients are advised to stop smoking before surgery and avoid it during recovery.
Avoid Unapproved Medications
Some medications and supplements can increase bleeding risk. Your surgeon will explain which medications to continue and which should be paused before surgery.
How We Prepare You for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Before wisdom tooth surgery, we provide clear pre-op instructions to help you prepare safely for the procedure. These instructions typically include fasting guidelines before anesthesia, medication instructions, and details about what to expect on the day of surgery.
We also review your medical history, explain the anesthesia plan, and answer any questions you may have before the procedure. If sedation is planned, we will make sure you understand the transportation requirements and what to expect during the first stage of recovery at home.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Harrisonburg, VA
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Harrisonburg, call (540) 437-1230 or visit us at 2071 Pro Pointe Lane, Harrisonburg, VA.
📍Other location
Legacy Surgery in Staunton, VA
(540) 213-8750
110-C Mactanly Pl., Staunton, VA 24401
FAQs
Can you eat before wisdom tooth removal?
If sedation or anesthesia is planned, patients are usually instructed not to eat or drink for several hours before surgery. Your oral surgeon will provide specific fasting instructions.
Can I drink water before wisdom tooth surgery?
Small amounts of water may sometimes be allowed several hours before surgery, depending on the anesthesia plan. Follow the instructions provided by your surgeon.
Can I smoke weed before wisdom tooth surgery?
Cannabis can interfere with anesthesia and may increase surgical risks. Patients are typically advised to avoid smoking before and after oral surgery.
How early should I arrive for wisdom tooth surgery?
Most oral surgery offices ask patients to arrive about 15 to 30 minutes before the scheduled procedure to review paperwork and prepare for anesthesia.