Continuing a regular fitness routine before wisdom teeth removal is generally acceptable, but it requires caution and modification. The goal of pre-operative exercise is to maintain physical conditioning without stressing the body or increasing the risk of complications. Since oral surgery often involves sedation or anesthesia, reducing physical strain beforehand is paramount for a smoother experience.
General Safety and Readiness Factors
Before considering any workout, confirm you are in optimal health, free of any signs of a cold, flu, or other systemic illness. Being well-hydrated is also important, as adequate fluid intake helps with IV placement if sedation is used. Patients with managed blood pressure and stable blood sugar levels typically handle the stress of surgery and anesthesia more effectively.
Do not exercise if you are under a mandatory fasting period, which is common for IV sedation or general anesthesia. Fasting prevents complications like aspiration. Any pre-operative activity must be cleared with your oral surgeon, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Timing the Final Pre-Op Workout
The timing of your final workout requires attention to ensure your body is rested and ready. While exercising days before the surgery is acceptable, avoid any strenuous activity in the 12 to 24 hours immediately preceding your appointment. High-intensity exercise can induce fatigue or mild dehydration, which can complicate preparation for anesthesia.
The goal is to prevent unnecessary physical stress that could impact your body’s stability during the procedure. If your surgery is scheduled for the morning, limit movement that day to only very light activities, such as walking. Workouts involving heavy sweating can deplete fluid and electrolyte levels, interfering with pre-operative hydration goals.
Modifying Exercise Intensity
In the days leading up to the wisdom teeth removal, decrease the intensity of your exercise regimen. Completely avoid high-impact activities, such as intense running or jumping, as they cause unnecessary jarring to the body. Also, steer clear of heavy resistance training or lifting maximum weights.
Activities requiring strenuous pushing or pulling cause a straining effect, which temporarily increases blood pressure and internal pressure—an undesirable state before surgery. Instead, focus on low-impact movement that maintains circulation without placing stress on the body. Excellent alternatives include gentle walking, light cycling at a low resistance, or mobility work and stretching that avoids excessive neck movement or inversions.