What You Need To Know About Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal: A Comprehensive Guide

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, and for many people, it’s a necessity. Wisdom teeth have the potential to cause a variety of problems if they become impacted or misaligned. In these cases, wisdom teeth removal is often the only option to alleviate pain and other symptoms. But what exactly is impacted wisdom teeth removal? And what should you expect if you need to have it done? This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions and provide an overview of what you need to know about impacted wisdom teeth removal.

What are impacted wisdom teeth?

Most people have four wisdom teeth, which are the last teeth to come in at the back of the mouth. Wisdom teeth usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, wisdom teeth can become impacted, which means they do not come in all the way or they grow in at an angle. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, crowding, and infection. They may also damage other teeth. Wisdom teeth that are not causing problems do not need to be removed. However, impacted wisdom teeth that are causing problems will need to be removed by a dentist or oral surgeon.

Why do they need to be removed?

There are a few reasons why your dentist may recommend that you have your wisdom teeth removed. One reason is that they may be causing crowding in your mouth and affecting the alignment of your other teeth. Additionally, they may be only partially erupted through the gums, which can make them difficult to clean and more susceptible to decay. They may also be impacting other teeth, which can cause damage.

The removal process

The removal process for impacted wisdom teeth generally takes place in an outpatient setting. The procedure itself is typically performed under local anesthesia, though sedation may be used in some cases. Prior to beginning the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will review the risks and benefits with you so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed.

During the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue overlying the tooth. The tooth will then be carefully removed. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the entire tooth, while in others only a portion of the tooth needs to be removed. Once the tooth has been removed, the area will be cleaned and sutured closed.

Afterward, you can expect some discomfort and swelling in the affected area. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to manage these symptoms and promote healing. It is important to follow these instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery.

Aftercare and recovery

After your impacted wisdom teeth removal surgery, you will need to take it easy for the rest of the day. Avoid any strenuous activity, such as working out, for at least 24 hours. You may have some bleeding and swelling after the procedure, which is normal. To help with the swelling, apply ice to your face for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. The day after your surgery, you can start using heat instead of ice.

You will likely have some pain and discomfort after your surgery. Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed and follow your dentist’s instructions. You may also have some numbness in your lips and tongue from the anesthesia. This should go away within a few hours. If it does not, call your dentist.

If you had stitches, they will dissolve on their own within a week or two. Until they dissolve, be sure to brush and floss carefully around them.

Your gums may be sore for a few days after surgery. Rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day to help relieve the pain.

It is important to eat soft foods and stay hydrated after your surgery. Avoid hot drinks and alcohol for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft foods such as soup, pudding, oatmeal, or mashed potatoes for the first few days following surgery. Gradually add other soft foods back into your diet as you feel more comfortable.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact your dentist. Your dentist is available to help you through the aftercare and recovery process.

Complications and risks

There are several complications and risks associated with impacted wisdom teeth removal. This includes:

• Infection: Infection is always a risk with any type of surgery. There is a small risk of infection with impacted wisdom teeth removal. To help prevent infection, your dentist or oral surgeon will prescribe antibiotics to be taken before and after the surgery.

• Pain: Some people experience pain after having their wisdom teeth removed. The pain is usually mild and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.

• Swelling: Swelling is also common after wisdom teeth removal. The swelling will usually go down within a week or two. Your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe a corticosteroid to help reduce the swelling.

• Bleeding: You may have some bleeding after your wisdom teeth are removed. This is normal and should stop within a few days. If the bleeding continues, contact your dentist or oral surgeon.

• Dry socket: This is a complication that may occur if the blood clot that forms at the extraction site does not remain in place. Without the clot, the bone and nerve endings are exposed, which can cause severe pain. If you experience dry socket, your dentist or oral surgeon will clean out the area and provide medication to help relieve the pain.

• Nerve damage: Damage to nerves can occur if the wisdom tooth is located close to a nerve. This is usually temporary but could potentially be permanent.

• Jaw fracture: There is a very small risk of jaw fracture during impacted wisdom teeth removal due to the proximity of the jawbone and roots of the teeth.

Conclusion

Impacted wisdom teeth removal is a complex process that should be handled by an experienced oral surgeon. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you the information you need to make an informed decision regarding your own impacted wisdom teeth extraction. If you’re considering having your impacted wisdom teeth extracted, please consult with a qualified oral specialist for more detailed advice and guidance on the best course of action for your individual needs.