What You Should Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you’ve developed wisdom teeth, there are high chances your dentist will advise you have them removed at some point. Most people get nervous about the procedure which is understandable, but it may help you get through it more easily if you know why it is important to remove them and what exactly to expect.
Why Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Typically, people develop wisdom teeth between 17 to 25 years of age. These are the third set of molars in the back of the mouth. Often, they can cause problems, so many people have them extracted for one or more of the following reasons:
- Since they are at the back of your mouth, they may not develop naturally and get trapped in the jawbone. This can be very painful and uncomfortable.
- They are often at an inconvenient angle and press against other teeth, leading to crookedness and crowding.
- Your jaw may not have the required space for the development of the wisdom teeth.
- If you have gum disease or cavities, you may be advised to remove your wisdom teeth.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
1. Before the Procedure
This is when you’ll meet with the surgeon. Dr. Ads is a general dentist who has received additional surgical training and removes wisdom teeth in many instances. Make sure to discuss the following:
- Any health issues that you may have.
- Any drugs that you have been regularly taking, both medical and recreational.
- Any questions that you may have about the surgery.
- Inquire if the wisdom tooth removal can be performed under sedation if it will make you more comfortable.
- Talk about the time you may have to take off from regular activities and the recovery process.
- If Dr. Ads deems the extraction to be very complicated, he will refer you to specialists who will perform this surgery.
2. During the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure
The entire surgery lasts for around 90 minutes. You’ll be given anesthesia to eliminate the pain. Afterwards, they’ll stitch the area to help you heal quickly.
3. After the Surgery
The effects of anesthesia vary from person to person, however, it is recommended that someone drive you home. Most people do not feel pain after having their wisdom teeth removed and are often more uncomfortable than hurt. Though you may have swelling and a mild ache for about three days, and it may take a few weeks to heal completely. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-wisdom teeth removal recovery carefully.
Here are a few additional tips to help you heal quickly:
Do’s
- Use an ice pack to curb the swelling.
- Be gentle when you open or close your mouth.
- Eat soft foods such as soup and rice.
- Have plenty of fluids.
- Be careful when brushing your teeth after the surgery and be mindful of potential blood clots and the surgical site.
- Take the prescribed medication regularly.
- If you have any concerns, call your dentist for assistance.
Don’ts
- Avoid chunky, overly sticky, and hard foods.
- Don’t use straw because sucking may loosen the blood clots and hamper the healing process.
- Don’t rinse or brush too harshly.
- Avoid smoking till the wounds heal.
Contact Our Skilled Dentist for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Today
At Westboro Dental Clinic, we provide the best dental treatments including wisdom teeth removal. We have experienced and qualified staff to cater to your dental needs and assist you appropriately.
For more information about our dental practitioners and procedures, reach out to us by calling 613-722-4450. You could also fill out our online form to schedule an appointment with us.