Wisdom tooth extraction is a delicate process that you must undergo only if a dentist advises you to. Wisdom teeth don’t really have any purpose; you can live healthily with or without them. However, in some cases wisdom teeth can cause intense pain. That is when dentists recommend taking out wisdom teeth.
If you are wondering what the whole process will be and how to prepare for wisdom tooth extraction, here is everything you need to know about the procedure.
Why Do I Need to Take Them Out?
Wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 17 and 25 and are usually seen only in x-rays. The main reasons why wisdom teeth removal is often necessary are:
They are impacted – Wisdom teeth are generally unable to grow normally in the mouth because they are located so far back. This means that in some situations the teeth can be trapped in between the jawbone or gums. This condition can be very painful.
They grow in at a wrong angle – In some cases, they may be pressed against other teeth and cause discomfort.
What to Expect Before the Procedure
Before the actual procedure, you will have to meet with your dentist to discuss any questions you may have about the procedure and wisdom tooth extraction recovery. You will also discuss what type of anesthesia you are going to have for the tooth extraction, and then schedule an appointment for the procedure.
Since the recovery may take some time and adjustments, make work arrangements ahead of time to make sure that everything is taken care of. You can also make arrangements for someone to take you home after the procedure if needed.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Wisdom tooth extraction usually takes about 45 minutes. Your dentist will use one of the many types of anesthesia to avoid any pain throughout the procedure.
Here are the types of anesthesia you can choose from:
- Local anesthesia – This is the type of anesthesia that is used for common medical or dental procedures. It will numb your mouth during the process, and make you feel alert afterwards.
- IV sedation – This will numb your mouth and will be given to you through injection, making you sleep during the procedure.
Once the medication has done its work, the dentist will start using surgical tools to extract the wisdom tooth. They will stitch the wounds to make the healing process as quick as possible. The stitches will automatically dissolve in your mouth so you don’t have to come back to the dental clinic to have it removed. Wisdom tooth extraction pain will not be felt during the surgery, but during the recovery.
Things to Expect After the Procedure
Each patient reacts differently to anesthesia. You may feel alert and continue your day with ease or feel drowsy and need some rest. The pain after surgery will mostly be due to the swelling that will last for three days or so, but your mouth will have its full recovery after a few weeks.
Here are the most common rules you need to follow for the first three days of your recovery:
Do’s:
- Use an ice pack on your face to prevent swelling and changes in your skin color
- Drink lots of water and healthy fluids
- Brush your teeth starting on the second day after the procedure
- If you experience a fever or major discomfort from your wound, contact your dentist immediately.
Don’ts:
- Don’t use a straw when drinking as it may loosen blood clots that will help with your recovery
- Don’t gargle too harshly. Rinse your mouth gently with saltwater instead.
- Don’t eat hard, sticky, or crunchy foods.
- Don’t smoke.
Frequently Asked Questions After the Procedure:
How long does pain after wisdom tooth extraction last?
Wisdom tooth extraction recovery may take three or four days. However, if your wisdom tooth is impacted, the recovery may last longer. The pain from the extraction will definitely improve around the third day, but the wounds will take about two months to heal completely. Prioritize your oral hygiene to prevent any infection after the procedure.
What to eat after wisdom tooth extraction?
The best food to eat after the procedure are soft and healthy foods such as eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, banana, oatmeal, and soups. Limit your intake with similar foods to avoid infection.
Taking care of your mouth before and after the procedure should be your top priority. For the best dental care, Sunrise Dentistry is home of the best holistic dentist in Durango, CO. Have the best care even during your recovery. Contact us now!
