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Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What You Need to Know

The final pair of molars, known as wisdom teeth, often erupt in your late teens or early twenties. These teeth can cause pain, crowding, or even infections for many people, while for others, they grow in nicely. You may be unsure of what to anticipate if your dentist has suggested their removal. This covers everything you need to know about having your wisdom teeth extracted.

The Need for Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Your dentist may suggest wisdom tooth extractions for a variety of reasons, even though not everyone needs them.

Pain and swelling may result from impacted wisdom teeth becoming lodged against other teeth or beneath the gum line.

If your mouth is too small, wisdom teeth may push against other teeth and cause misalignment.

They are more vulnerable to infections and cavities because they are difficult to clean. Some patients have cysts or inflamed gums around their wisdom teeth, which can harm the jawbone.

If you have pain, swelling, or repeated infections, your dentist may recommend removing your wisdom teeth to avoid more issues.

What to anticipate along the process

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common treatment that oral surgeons and dentists carry out. The following steps are often involved in the procedure.

Consultation

Your dentist will examine your teeth and take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. They will talk about anesthetic alternatives and decide if removal is required.

Anesthesia

You may get general anesthesia to make you sleep, sedation anesthesia to help you relax, or local anesthesia to numb the area. The decision is based on your comfort level and the complexity of the extraction.

Procedure for Extraction

The tooth can be extracted just like any other tooth once it has fully erupted. In order to reach the tooth if it is impacted, the dentist will make a small incision in the gums and extract some bone. Before being extracted, the tooth could occasionally need to be broken up into smaller pieces. Gum healing may be aided by the use of stitches.

Recuperation Starts

Usually, the complete process takes between thirty and sixty minutes. You will then have a brief break before returning home.

Healing and Recuperation Following Extraction Care

After wisdom teeth extraction, healing usually takes a few days to a week. You’ll heal more quickly if you follow these suggestions.

Dos:

  • Take prescribed pain medication as directed
  • Rest for at least 24 hours following the procedure.
  • Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
  • Consume creamy meals like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soup.
  • Keep your head up while you rest.
  • Rinse with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean
Using a straw could cause the suction to dislodge the blood clot; smoking for at least 72 hours could slow the healing process.
Eating hard or crunchy foods can hurt your gums. Rinsing or spitting too hard can remove the blood clot, causing pain. Touching the wound with your tongue or fingers can also lead to problems.

Most swelling and discomfort go away within three to five days. After two weeks, you should be fully healed.

Possible Complications

Most people heal without issues, but some complications can occur. If you encounter any of the following symptoms, give your dentist a call.
  • Prolonged bleeding that lasts for several hours
  • Severe pain that gets worse after three to four days
  • Signs of infection such as swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth
Dry socket is one of the most common complications. When the blood clot at the extraction site breaks loose, the bone is exposed, resulting in excruciating pain. Your dentist can treat it if needed.

Final Thoughts

Removing wisdom teeth is a common procedure that helps prevent pain and future dental problems. It might seem scary, but taking care of yourself afterward will help you heal smoothly. If your dentist suggests the procedure, follow their advice, and you’ll recover quickly. If you have any concerns about wisdom teeth removal, ask your dentist for the best guidance.