What To Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth – the third set of molars that grow at the back of the mouth – are tricky by nature. If your dentist says to you, “It’s time to get your wisdom teeth out”, it is usually for one of a handful of specific reasons. Each of these reasons is supported by oral health concerns that, if left untreated, can cause pain and future problems for the patient. The primary reasons for wisdom teeth removal include:
Wisdom Teeth are Impacted
Because they are located so far in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth may grow incorrectly. It’s common to see wisdom teeth becoming trapped in the jawbone or gums which is incredibly painful and can lead to infection.
Wisdom Teeth Grow at the Wrong Angle
Wisdom teeth may be growing at an angle which causes them to press up against your other teeth. This can lead to overcrowding in the mouth, an overbite and crooked teeth.
The Patient’s Mouth Isn’t Big Enough for Wisdom Teeth
Similarly, patients with small mouths may not have the required room for wisdom teeth to grow properly; without impacting other teeth. When this is the case, if left untreated, wisdom tooth growth can similarly cause overcrowding in the mouth, an overbite and crooked teeth.
The Patient Has Cavities or Gum Disease
Cavities or tooth decay in wisdom teeth can occur if the patient is unable to reach them with a toothbrush or dental floss. Even if wisdom teeth have grown normally, signs of decay are usually an indication that wisdom teeth need to be removed for the safety of the patient.
If any of these situations befall you, either your local dentist or dental surgeon will be able to remove your wisdom teeth.
What to Expect Before Wisdom Teeth Surgery
Prior to commencing wisdom teeth surgery, your dentist or dental surgeon will ask a series of questions to uncover any underlying health conditions that you have and any medications you are on which may interfere with the surgery. You will have the chance to ask any questions you have as well as discuss the anesthetic that you will take during the surgery. Before your wisdom teeth surgery, you should plan for any time off from school or work and make sure that you have arranged for someone to give you a lift home from the dental practice as, depending on the anesthesia you receive, you may be unable to drive.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Surgery
The overall procedure should take no longer than 45 minutes. Either local, sedative or general anesthetic will be applied intravenously and you will shortly go numb or fall asleep. The dentist will use surgical tools to extract the tooth. This may involve cutting through the gum or jawbone to provide access to the wisdom tooth being removed. If cutting is involved, stitches will be applied and gauze may be used to soak up some of the blood.
What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Surgery
Most people feel no pain directly after wisdom teeth surgery. You may experience swelling and some discomfort for up to three days following the procedure, however. Any stitches used during surgery will dissolve by this time. During the recovery period, be sure to eat soft foods and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid brushing any blood clots, drinking through a straw and smoking for the immediate period following surgery. After the swelling has subsided, it’s a good idea to book another appointment with your local dentist to make sure everything has healed correctly.
Book an Appointment at Big Smiles Dental Today
Wisdom teeth removal can be absolutely essential for oral health. If you have any questions around what you think might be wisdom teeth issues, or if you are due for a check-up, please don’t hesitate to book an appointment at Big Smiles Dental today.