Getting your wisdom tooth removed? Here’s what to know
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that crop up in the back of the mouth, usually after the age of 17. Wisdom teeth are considered vestigial, which means they are not necessary. Some people have all four wisdom teeth, while others may just have one or two. There is nothing wrong with you if you have a wisdom tooth, but your general dentist in Denton, TX, may recommend getting it extracted if you have pain or other symptoms. In this guide, we will discuss what to expect before you go for wisdom tooth extraction.
Reasons to extract a wisdom tooth
More often than not, wisdom teeth get impacted, which means they remain trapped in the gums or jawbone. That can cause severe pain and discomfort. The third set of molars could also grow sideways or crowd the mouth, causing similar symptoms. If not removed, the patient may continue to experience pain, develop gum disease, and experience decay. Wisdom teeth can also impact other teeth, and dentists usually recommend removal to avoid further complications.
The initial consultation
During the first consultation, your dentist will order X-rays to check the exact location and growth of wisdom teeth. They will also discuss the medications you are currently taking and your health history. The procedure can be slightly more complicated than a standard tooth extraction, which is why it is wise to discuss the sedation dentistry options. The dentist will walk you through the options, which include local anesthesia, IV, laughing gas, and general anesthesia. For IV and general anesthesia, more prep is required, such as fasting for a few years and stopping certain medicines.
During the extraction process
Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the wisdom teeth and surrounding gums. If you have selected sedation, they will give you additional medications. Next, they will make incisions to expose the wisdom tooth. They will try to loosen the tooth and lift it from the position. If everything goes right, they will clean and close the surgical site. A gauge is usually placed to stop the bleeding. The whole procedure can take about an hour, but because the third set of molars often crop up at the end, some cases require surgery, which can require more time.
Care instructions to follow
Your dentist will usually share a list of guidelines to follow that will help manage the pain and swelling after extraction. Don’t remove the gauge for at least an hour, and if required, consider replacing it with clean gauze again. Resting for at least three days is recommended, but patients who have demanding jobs that require physical work may need to rest longer. You can use an ice pack to counter the swelling. Keep the ice pack for about 20 minutes and repeat that many times for the next few days. Ask your dentist about the mouthwash you can use to keep the surgical site clean. Do not try to floss, although you can continue brushing and flossing other teeth as usual. You will usually get painkillers and medications to accelerate the healing, which must be taken as recommended and for the time suggested.
Also, do not use a straw and avoid exercise until your dentist says it’s okay to do so. Avoid heavy lifting that can create complications like bleeding and pain. Choose soft foods that are easy to consume, and stay away from colas and sodas.
Final word
If you have any questions, ask your dentist, and in case you are experiencing extreme pain or bleeding, contact the clinic immediately. Done by a qualified dentist in Denton, wisdom tooth extraction is usually a simple procedure with minimal risk of complications.