Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure many individuals undergo to address issues such as impaction, pain, or overcrowding. To ensure a safe and effective experience, it is important to follow pre-operative instructions. These guidelines are designed to prepare the body for the procedure and minimize potential risks associated with anesthesia.
The Medical Rationale for Fasting
Fasting before wisdom teeth removal is a standard instruction, particularly when intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia is used. Anesthesia alters consciousness and relaxes muscles. Under sedation, the protective reflexes, such as the gag reflex and the ability to cough, are suppressed. This suppression means the body loses its natural defense mechanisms against foreign substances entering the airways.
An empty stomach reduces the risk of pulmonary aspiration, a serious complication where stomach contents are inhaled into the lungs. Anesthesia can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which prevents stomach acid and food from flowing back up. If food or liquid is in the stomach when these reflexes are diminished, it can be regurgitated and aspirated into the lungs.
Immediate Risks and Complications
Eating or drinking too close to wisdom teeth removal can lead to several immediate adverse events. One common consequence is increased nausea and vomiting after surgery. Anesthesia itself can cause these symptoms, but a full stomach exacerbates the problem, leading to discomfort and potential complications like dehydration.
The most severe risk is aspiration pneumonia, resulting from stomach contents entering the lungs. This can cause a chemical injury to lung tissue, leading to inflammation and infection. Symptoms may include fever, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain.
If the surgical team discovers that a patient has not followed fasting instructions, the procedure will likely be postponed or canceled. This is done to prioritize patient safety and avoid risks, but it can result in inconvenience, rescheduling difficulties, and additional costs. Food in the stomach can also interfere with the effectiveness of anesthesia, making it more challenging to achieve sedation.
Guidance for Pre-Surgery Fasting
To minimize risks, oral surgeons provide specific fasting instructions that patients must follow. Standard guidelines recommend no solid food for at least 6 to 8 hours before the procedure. Clear liquids, such as water or black coffee, may be permitted up to 2 to 4 hours before surgery. These are general recommendations, and individual instructions from the surgical team should always take precedence.
Should a patient accidentally eat or drink anything, it is important to immediately inform the surgical team. Concealing this information can compromise safety and lead to serious complications during anesthesia. While it may result in the procedure being delayed or rescheduled, honesty allows the medical professionals to make informed decisions that protect the patient’s well-being. Adhering to these pre-operative instructions ensures patient safety and a successful wisdom teeth removal.