All You Need To Know About Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Before, During and After Care

Wisdom teeth can be a real pain. While most people get them removed in their teens and early twenties, many others are finding themselves dealing with wisdom tooth extraction in their thirties or even later. No matter your age, having a wisdom tooth extraction is never an easy process. Fortunately, there’s plenty of information out there about the procedure and what to expect before, during and after removal. In this blog post we will discuss all you need to know about wisdom teeth extractions so that you can prepare yourself for the entire process.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties. They’re called wisdom teeth because they’re supposed to come in when you’re old enough to be wise. For some people, wisdom teeth cause no problems and they can just brush and floss them like any other tooth. But for others, wisdom teeth can crowd other teeth and cause pain or infection. If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend having them removed.

Wisdom tooth removal is a fairly common procedure, and it’s usually not too painful. The recovery is usually pretty quick, too. Most people can go back to their normal activities within a few days.

Why do we need to extract wisdom teeth?

It is estimated that around 85% of people will develop at least one impacted wisdom tooth during their lifetime. When a wisdom tooth fails to erupt fully or becomes trapped (impacted) against the adjacent tooth, it can cause a number of problems. Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted are easy for bacteria to attack. If not treated promptly, an impacted wisdom tooth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth. In some cases, extracting wisdom teeth may be the best option to prevent these problems from occurring.

When is the best time to extract wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth typically start to come in between the ages of 17 and 21. However, they may not erupt through the gum line until much later. If they do not cause pain or crowding, there is no need to remove them.

If wisdom teeth are causing problems, your dentist may recommend extracting them. Wisdom tooth extraction is a fairly common procedure. It is generally safe and complication-free when performed by a qualified dental professional.

The best time to extract wisdom teeth is usually when they first start to cause problems. This is typically around the age of 17 or 21. However, if wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck under the gum line), it may be necessary to wait until they are fully developed before extracting them. This can be anytime from late adolescence to early adulthood.

Aftercare following wisdom tooth extraction is important to ensure proper healing. For the first 24 hours after surgery, it is important to rest and avoid any strenuous activity. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and eating hard or crunchy foods during this time. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery. Be sure to follow these instructions closely to promote proper healing and minimize your risk for complications.

How is the extraction procedure done?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves removal of the wisdom teeth, which are the four backmost molars in the mouth. Wisdom teeth usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. They may not cause any problems if they come in properly (aligned with the other teeth), but they often become impacted (stuck and unable to come in properly). Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, crowding, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.

Wisdom tooth extraction is typically performed by an oral surgeon under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. The procedure begins with a small incision being made in the gums to expose the wisdom tooth. The surgeon then removes any bone that is covering the tooth and divides the tooth into sections if necessary. The tooth is then extracted from the socket and any remaining debris is cleaned out. The incision is closed with stitches and gauze is placed over it to control bleeding.

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness for a few days. Pain can be controlled with pain medication prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.

What can I expect after the extraction?

It is normal to experience some bleeding and swelling after the extraction. To control the bleeding, bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the procedure. Some oozing of blood may persist for the next day or two. Swelling usually peaks 48 hours after the procedure and then gradually goes down over the next several days. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to your cheek in 20 minute intervals.

How to take care of my mouth after the extraction?

It is important to take care of your mouth following a wisdom tooth extraction. Here are some tips:

-Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water starting the day after your surgery. Do this several times a day for the next week. This will help reduce swelling and promote healing.

-Avoid eating hard, crunchy or chewy foods for at least a week after surgery. Eating soft foods will help prevent bleeding and promoting healing.

-Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. This will help avoid infection and keep your mouth clean.

-If you experience pain, take over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your dentist or surgeon. You may also apply ice to the outside of your face for 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.

-If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your dentist or surgeon immediately.

-Avoid smoking for at least a week after the surgery. Smoking can slow the healing process.

-Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments with your dentist or surgeon.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a speedy and successful recovery from your wisdom tooth extraction.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth removal can be a scary procedure, but understanding what to expect before and after the surgery will help make it easier. Following all of your dentist’s instructions during and after the procedure is essential for a successful recovery. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits as well as eating nourishing foods post-surgery will help you heal quickly with minimal discomfort. With proper care, wisdom tooth extraction doesn’t have to be a difficult experience; just remember these tips! For more information, contact a dentist today.