If the thought of undergoing a wisdom tooth extraction leaves you feeling anxious, rest assured that you’re not alone!
Many people experience fear or anxiety when it comes to seeing the dentist. But here’s the good news: Wisdom Tooth Removal is a commonly performed procedure. The recovery time, however, can vary from person to person. Moreover, it might just be the perfect excuse to indulge in some ice cream as a post-treatment reward!
So, why not dive into this quick guide? It covers everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal, from getting prepped before the appointment to having a smooth recovery at home.
When Wisdom Teeth Turn Troublesome: Identifying Complications
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are an extra set of teeth that typically emerge in the late teenage years or early 20s. While some people experience no issues with wisdom teeth, others encounter complications due to limited jaw space.
The common problems include:
- Pain and Discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth, those trapped below the gum line, can exert pressure on your jaw, leading to pain and discomfort.
- Infection: Food particles can easily get trapped around impacted teeth, making it easier for harmful bacteria and germs to grow and cause infection.
- Damage to Surrounding Teeth: If there isn’t enough room, crowded wisdom teeth can push against neighbouring teeth, causing them to become misaligned and damaged.
- Gum Disease: Impacted teeth are difficult to clean properly, which can irritate and inflame the gums, leading to gum disease.
- Cyst formation: In severe cases, cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs, can develop around the impacted wisdom tooth. They may require surgery.
Signs and Symptoms of Troublesome Wisdom Teeth: Recognising Red Flags
Here are some red flags that might indicate wisdom teeth trouble:
- Persistent jaw pain
- Jaw stiffness or difficulty opening your mouth wide
- Trouble chewing or biting
- Red, swollen, or tender gums around the back teeth
- Persistent unpleasant breath (halitosis) or a bad taste in your mouth
If you are experiencing any of these issues, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation with us at Prevent Dental Suite. Our dental team is skilled at diagnosing and removing problematic wisdom teeth early on to prevent future complications.
Preparation for Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery: A Smooth Experience
Prior to the removal of your wisdom teeth, a thorough checkup will be done. This might involve X-rays to get a detailed understanding of the situation, helping determine the best extraction approach. Your dentist will also discuss your anaesthesia options (pain relief methods) and provide any necessary pre-surgery instructions, such as fasting before the procedure.
To ensure a smooth process, make sure you’ve someone to drive you home after the surgery and don’t hesitate to ask your dentist or oral surgeon for specific recovery advice.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure: A Step-by-Step Look
The wisdom teeth removal procedure at Prevent Dental Suite, prioritises your comfort. Let’s break down the key steps:
- Anaesthesia and Preparation: Our dental team ensures you’re comfortable with your chosen anaesthesia to numb the area.
- Tooth Exposure: Our surgeon will begin an incision in the gum tissue, exposing the tooth and surrounding bone.
- Tooth Removal: The tooth is loosened from its socket using specialised tools. In some cases, it may be divided into sections for easier removal.
- Cleaning and Closure: The surgical site is meticulously cleaned to prevent infection. Stitches may be used to close the incision and promote faster healing.
- Bleeding Control: A gauze will be placed over the extraction sites to control bleeding.
Recovering Comfortably at Home: Your Post-Surgery Guide
Following the surgery, it is normal to experience some swelling, discomfort, and mild bleeding. Your dentist will provide you with specific post-operative instructions but here are some tips for smooth wisdom tooth surgery recovery:
- Apply an ice pack to your cheek to soothe pain and reduce swelling
- Refrain from vigorous rinsing or spitting for the first 24 hours
- Stick to soft foods like soups, yoghurt, mashed potatoes to avoid disrupting the blood clot
- Gently rinse with salt water after 24 hours to keep the extraction site clean
- Take any antibiotics as prescribed by the dentist to prevent infection
- See your dentist if the pain increases or lasts more than a few days
How Long Does a Wisdom Tooth Extraction Take to Heal?
The healing process following a wisdom tooth extraction can differ from person to person. In general, most patients will experience significant improvement within the first week after surgery. However, it may take several weeks for complete healing to occur. To promote faster healing, be sure to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully.
