Will They Remove Lip Piercings Before Pulling Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure that many individuals undergo at some point in their lives. However, if you have a lip piercing, you may be wondering whether it needs to be removed before the surgery. In this article, we will explore this topic from various perspectives to provide you with a comprehensive understanding.

The Importance of Removing Lip Piercings

Before we delve into the specifics, let's discuss why the removal of lip piercings is typically advised before any dental procedure. Lip piercings, particularly those with studs or rings, can pose potential risks during surgery. They have the potential to interfere with the dentist's work, increase the chances of tissue damage, or even cause accidental injury.

1. Increased Risk of Infection: Lip piercings can harbor bacteria, making the surgical area more prone to infections. Even with proper precautions, the presence of an oral piercing can complicate the healing process and increase the risk of post-surgical complications.

2. Potential Obstruction: Lip piercings may obstruct the dentist's access to the surgical area, hindering their ability to perform the procedure efficiently. Removing the lip piercing eliminates this potential obstacle and ensures a smoother extraction process.

3. Protection of Dental Equipment: Dental instruments, such as forceps and retractors, are delicate and easily damaged. The presence of a lip piercing increases the risk of these instruments getting caught or tangled, potentially leading to damage or breakage.

4. Minimizing Risks: By removing your lip piercing, you significantly reduce the chances of inadvertent injuries occurring during the procedure. Lip piercings can be accidentally pulled or tugged, causing discomfort, bleeding, or other unwanted complications.

Procedure and Precautions

Now that you understand why lip piercings should be removed, let's explore the procedure and necessary precautions.

1. Prior Consultation: Before the surgery, schedule a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. They will examine your specific case and provide personalized guidance on the removal of your lip piercing. They may recommend removing the piercing yourself or have it done professionally by a piercer.

2. Timing of Piercing Removal: The timing of the piercing removal is crucial to ensure adequate healing before the wisdom tooth extraction. It is generally recommended to remove the lip piercing a few days or a week before the scheduled surgery to allow the wound to close partially.

3. Aftercare: Following the removal of the lip piercing, proper aftercare is essential. Clean the piercing site regularly with a saline solution and avoid touching it to minimize the risk of infection. If any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, appear, consult your dentist or healthcare professional immediately.

4. Retaining Options: If you are concerned about the piercing closing up, discuss with your piercer about retaining options such as using a clear plastic or glass retainer during the healing process. This way, you can preserve the piercing hole while ensuring a safe and successful wisdom tooth extraction.

Pricing Information

While the cost of removing a lip piercing before wisdom tooth extraction may vary depending on location and specific circumstances, the average price ranges from $50 to $100. It is always recommended to inquire about the exact cost during your consultation with the dentist or oral surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will the removal of my lip piercing be painful?

No, removing a lip piercing is a relatively simple and quick procedure. It may cause minor discomfort, but it is generally considered painless.

2. Can I get my lip piercing reinserted after the wisdom tooth extraction?

After the extraction and once your dentist gives you the green light to do so, you can have your lip piercing reinserted. However, it is crucial to follow proper aftercare instructions and allow sufficient time for the extraction site to heal completely.

3. Are there any risks associated with keeping the lip piercing in during the surgery?

Yes, keeping the lip piercing in during the surgery poses several risks, such as interference with the procedure, increased chance of infection, and potential dental instrument damage. It is best to remove the piercing to minimize these risks.