Preparing For Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth extractions can be something of a rite of passage for many people, but if you have a full time job and a host of other responsibilities it can be terribly inconvenient. Planning ahead for the time you'll be recovering from oral surgery is essential in this situation. Whether you have a family of your own or live by yourself, make sure you take the necessary steps to ensure a safe and expeditious recovery.
Transportation and Medication
Most wisdom teeth removals involve sedation of one type or another. Unfortunately, this means you won't be getting home under your own power, so make sure you have someone lined up to do the driving for you. Whether it's your spouse, a friend, a neighbor or a co-worker you trust, they need to be with you at the appointment so they're present when you're ready to go.
Even after you've been released from the oral surgeon's office, there are chores to take care of. You'll need to pick up several prescriptions following your extraction, and won't be able to drive in order to get there. Bear in mind, most oral surgeons prescribe narcotic pain relievers following wisdom teeth extractions, so be sure the person collecting your prescriptions is someone you can trust.
Stock Up and Stay Home
No matter what your day job is, you'll be in no shape to return for at least twenty-four hours, possibly longer. Line up your extraction to coincide with existing time off, or schedule a few vacation days well in advance so you don't have to worry about work while you're convalescing. Line up some movies, make a nest on the couch and make yourself comfortable for the long haul.
While you're recovering from a major extraction, your jaw will be extremely tender. As a result, you won't be able to eat solid foods for several days, even after the primary recovery period. Make sure you stock up on simple to make, soft foods so you can still eat without putting yourself through agony in the process. Pudding, instant mashed potatoes, and anything you can swallow without chewing are the best choices.
While the basics should be explained to you by your oral surgeon during the appointment, knowing what to take care of in advance can make it easier to schedule and prepare. Talk to an oral surgeon at an office like Sundance Dental Care if you have any special concerns before the surgery. Don't wait until the day before your appointment to address any of these matters, or you'll regret it come the day of the extraction.
Share