Pre-Op Instructions for Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Austin, TX

Why Wisdom Teeth Removal is Important?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often cause problems when they don't have enough space to grow properly. They can become impacted, infected, or misaligned leading to pain, swelling, or damage to nearby teeth. In some cases, they remain hidden under the gums, making them harder to clean and more vulnerable to infection.

Removing them early especially in younger adults can help protect your overall oral health and reduce your risk of needing more complex surgery later in life.

Day of Surgery – What to Expect

Fasting Guidelines

If you're receiving IV sedation or oral conscious sedation, you must not eat or drink anything (not even water) for 8 hours before your appointment. This is critical to your safety and the success of the sedation.

Patients undergoing local anesthesia without sedation may have a light meal 2–3 hours before their appointment.

What to Wear

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes
  
• Avoid makeup, nail polish, perfume, and cologne
  
• Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and piercings
  
• Keep sleeves short for easy access to your arm if sedation is being used
  

Opening Mouth Exercises Can Help Before Surgery

Many patients experience tightness from impacted wisdom teeth, so performing opening mouth exercises beforehand can ease that discomfort. Slowly open your mouth as wide as you can without pain, hold it open for 5 seconds, and then close. Do this 10 times, twice daily, before your procedure. These stretches improve jaw mobility, reduce soreness, and make it easier to heal after surgery. If any movements cause pain, stop immediately and let our team know.