The third set of molars, or wisdom teeth, frequently erupt near the rear of your mouth in your late teens or early twenties. Many people choose to have them removed because of the discomfort, infection, and other dental issues they can cause. Guelph Royal Dental Centre wants to ensure that our patients know the wisdom teeth extraction procedure and what to anticipate.
Purpose of Wisdom Teeth
The final set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, the wisdom teeth, usually arrive between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. Yet some people may have more, others less, and others none.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
If wisdom teeth are not removed, they can lead to various dental issues. Since they are the last set of teeth to erupt, they often don’t have enough room to develop properly, which can lead to them becoming impacted or trapped below the gumline. Impacted wisdom teeth can harm neighbouring teeth and the jawbone in addition to causing discomfort, edema, infection, and other symptoms. An impaction of the wisdom tooth can lead to various dental issues. They might knock against neighbouring teeth, causing them to shift. Also, they may make it challenging to brush and floss properly, which increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
What to Expect While Having Wisdom Teeth Removed:
The removal of wisdom teeth is a reasonably simple procedure. Your dentist or oral surgeon will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth before treatment. In some circumstances, they could also administer medication to help you unwind and enjoy the procedure.
Following sedation and relaxation, your oral surgeon or dentist will carefully separate the tooth from the surrounding bone and gum tissue using specialist tools. Depending on where the tooth is located, they might need to create a small incision in the gum tissue to reach it.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will loosen the tooth before gently rocking it back and forth until it falls out. They might occasionally need to shatter the tooth into tiny pieces to make removing it easier.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will carefully clean the area after the tooth extraction and apply a gauze pad to the extraction site to help control any bleeding. They could also apply stitches to help repair the gum tissue.
Following Wisdom Teeth Extraction, Healing:
Healing usually takes one week after your wisdom teeth are removed. It’s critical to adhere rigorously to your dentist’s advice to promote proper healing during this time.
You must bite down on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after the treatment to stop bleeding. To help reduce swelling, you might also need to apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek.
Smoking, sipping through a straw, or strong mouthwashing may disturb the blood clot that forms at the extraction site for the first few days after the procedure. This may lead to a painful condition called a dry socket.
For the first few days, you should eat only soft foods; once you feel comfortable, you can gradually start eating solid foods. Avoid acidic or sweetened beverages, and consume enough water to stay hydrated. This will help prevent irritation at the extraction site.
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen, both of which are over-the-counter drugs, may help you manage any pain or discomfort you have while healing. Also, your dentist might recommend a strong painkiller if necessary.
When to See the Dentist:
You must contact your dentist right away if you have any of the following symptoms after having your wisdom teeth removed:
- Heavy bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure for 30 to 45 minutes
- Swelling that worsens over time
- Swelling that gets worse after a few days
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- A fever of more than 100.4°F (38°C)
- Nausea, vomiting, or pus
- Pus or other discharge coming from the extraction site
These signs could indicate an infection or a dry socket, both of which require immediate medical attention.
Conclusion:
Because wisdom teeth can lead to dental issues if not removed, many people opt to have them extracted. Although dental surgery can be frightening, removing a wisdom tooth is simple, and recovery often lasts only a week or so.
Our main focus is to provide our patients with the best dental treatment. If you need help deciding whether wisdom teeth extraction is best for you, contact our experienced dental experts. We’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure the process is successful and comfortable.
If you’re looking for a happier, healthier smile, please schedule an appointment with us at 519-837-1870. It’s not a good idea to wait until your wisdom teeth start to cause issues.
Contact Guelph Royal Dental Centre immediately if you have any questions about tooth removal or if your wisdom teeth are causing you pain or suffering. Our dental team is here to answer your questions and help you choose the best course of action for your needs. We are dedicated to offering top-notch dental services in a friendly setting. Contact us anytime with any questions or to book an appointment.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Please note that any advice offered is not a substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.