Wisdom teeth removal is a common rite of passage, often occurring between the ages of 17 and 25. It's something almost everyone goes through, but rarely do people talk about it. Your dentist may recommend this surgical procedure even if your wisdom teeth aren't currently causing dental problems.
Wisdom teeth removal is meant to solve issues, but sometimes prevent them. Because wisdom teeth are the last to arrive, they can become impacted due to a lack of space in the jaw.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of teeth to grow in, positioned at the very back of your mouth. For our ancestors, these teeth were vital for grinding down tough, raw foods.
With today's softer diets and smaller jaws, there is often not enough space for these teeth to grow. In fact, 90% of patients have at least one impacted wisdom tooth and could face problems. This common scenario often leads to tooth removal.
Understanding Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth don't have enough space to come in properly. They can grow sideways, stay trapped below the gum line, or emerge only partially, leading to a range of dental problems.
These teeth are located so far back that it makes cleaning them really hard. This can cause several oral health issues.
This can lead to:
- Pain and swelling.
- Infection and gum disease.
- Damage to nearby teeth.
- Potential for cysts (fluid-filled sac) to grow.
Why Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Your dentist might spot a potential issue, such as an impacted wisdom tooth growing at an awkward angle, risking damage to nearby teeth. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food, causing a buildup of bacteria and potentially leading to infection. Your dentist may recommend removing them to avoid these issues.
Some dentists believe preventative wisdom teeth removal reduces the risk of long-term complications. Issues, such as infection, cavities, and damage to neighboring teeth, can worsen over time. If you're a parent, consider early removal during the late teens to reduce future complications.
Timing Your Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom tooth surgery often takes less than an hour, with full healing usually occurring in a couple of weeks. It typically takes about three days before your mouth returns to normal.
It’s normal to have some swelling, bleeding, and pain, which should not last more than a week. If any of these problems worsen or don't improve, contact your doctor.
Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Having this oral surgery might feel like a significant milestone. Knowing some basic points ahead of the appointment with the oral surgeon is helpful.
When discussing wisdom tooth removal, discuss health issues or medications, and ask questions. The cost of the removal can vary depending on whether the teeth have erupted.
Procedure for Wisdom Teeth Removal
There are ways to make this procedure smoother and simpler:
The most important step of any dental treatment is providing an anesthetic. If you are anxious about upcoming surgery, general anesthesia can put you in a deep sleep, so you won't be aware of any of it.
General anesthesia for wisdom teeth procedures usually takes about 45 minutes. Other anesthesia options, such as Novocain with laughing gas, are commonly provided to help you relax. Your oral surgeon might numb your mouth with local anesthesia or use IV sedation to put you to sleep. Dr. Suarez allows his patients to choose how they would like to be sedated for their procedure.
After the Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
You might be groggy or a little confused after receiving anesthesia. You may be too tired.
Arrange for transport and ask someone to stay with you during the initial hours of the post-operative stage. After returning home, use ice packs for 20-minute intervals to minimize swelling.
Below are answers to typical questions that may come up.
What Foods To Eat After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Think soft and soothing when selecting what to eat after returning home from surgery. Soft foods are easier on your wounds.
Here are some great choices:
- Yogurt.
- Pudding.
- Soups.
- Pasta.
- Mashed potatoes.
Skip hard or spicy foods to encourage a faster recovery.
Medications To Take After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Your surgeon will guide you through medications. Over-the-counter pain medicine can help with any post-operative discomfort. In more severe cases, they may prescribe stronger pain medications.
Follow instructions to reduce risks, such as infection. Pain medication can help you feel normal again.
When To Brush and Floss after Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Give your mouth a 24-hour rest period post-surgery. Skip the usual cleaning during that first day.
After that, be very gentle around the extraction site. Your dentist might recommend a warm saltwater rinse to reduce the chances of infection and help keep the area clean.
When to use a straw after surgery
It's common to want to have some drinks after your teeth have been removed. It's important to avoid using straws for at least a week.
Using a straw might cause complications by dislodging any blood clots that have formed. This can cause a dry socket.
Long-Term Complications and Aftercare
While most wisdom teeth removals have no surgical complications, exceptions can occur. Watch for excessive bleeding, swelling, bruising, dry socket, fever, and severe pain. Contact your dentist for a follow up to request an appointment.
Rare complications include infection or nerve damage. Contact Dr. Suarez if any unexpected symptoms appear so they can help in managing your health.
FAQs about wisdom teeth removal
How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth removal?
Most people recover in a few days and feel fine within about a week or two. The recovery time can vary depending on the individual, the teeth, the procedure itself, and any complications.
Some impacted tooth cases might have a harder time than others recovering. If the surrounding bone was affected, it can take more time.
Conclusion
The prospect of wisdom teeth removal can feel scary at first. Having this surgery to remove the final set of teeth may seem painful or complicated.
You might be feeling concerned or anxious. Understanding what wisdom teeth are and how the process unfolds can help to ease those feelings. Talking with dental specialists may remove many concerns about undergoing wisdom teeth removal. Feel free to call our West Covina dental office with questions or to express your concerns.