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Should your dentist recommend that you undergo wisdom tooth removal, it is important to find out as much information as you can about this surgical procedure to adequately prepared yourself.
There are a number of reasons why people have their wisdom teeth removed. A common issue being the emergence of wisdom teeth during adolescence and early adulthood. As your mouth is full of teeth at this age, there is typically not enough room for them to erupt properly. This can lead to impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth. When teeth are impacted, the inability to properly clean them arises, leading to infection, gum disease, and tooth decay. The presence of impacted wisdom teeth can also cause the development of cysts, resulting in further dental and periodontal issues.
In such cases, a dentist is likely to recommend having surgery to have the affected teeth removed. Read on to learn more about what you can expect during the different stages of wisdom teeth removal surgery.
How to Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
The great news about wisdom teeth removal is that it can safely and effectively deal with the problems that arise from impacted teeth. As wisdom teeth are not necessary for you to perform functions, with many people never getting them at all, having them removed becomes the best option when they begin to cause problems.
The outpatient procedure is carried out under local or general anesthesia by a general dentist or oral surgeon; depending on the complexity of the surgery. Because of the use of anesthetics, it is critical to arrange for someone to take you home afterward as driving is not allowed after general anesthesia or conscious sedation.
The length of the wisdom teeth removal procedure varies depending on the complexity, typically taking an hour or two with the recovery period ranging from a few days to a week. ― All relevant information can be gathered from your dentist before the procedure. Be sure to ask questions and make all the necessary arrangements in advance.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
On the day of the procedure, make sure to stay relaxed and arrive on time. Before the general dentist or oral surgeon begins the extraction process, the anesthetic will be administered. Depending on the dentist’s recommendations, this can be a:
- Local Anesthetic – The teeth and gums are numbed. You are awake during the extraction procedure but are numbed.
- Conscious Sedation Anesthetic – Can be taken through a pill or administered through an IV. You may be asleep or awake during conscious sedation; however, both situations do not allow for conscious memory.
- General Anesthetic – Administered through inhalation or intravenously through an IV, this type of anesthesia puts you to sleep.
Once the conscious sedation or general anesthesia has taken effect, your teeth and gums are numbed, and the extraction begins. The wisdom teeth are removed, and stitches may be placed.
What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After the procedure, it may take a few hours for the anesthetic to wear off, with recovery taking anywhere from a few days to a week; depending on the complexity of the surgery. In some cases, you do not need to revisit your dentist afterward, and healing progresses smoothly on its own without any further intervention or stitch removal.
Once the procedure completes, you can expect some bleeding and swelling. Therefore, it is important to take your time before resuming your normal diet. Lots of water is recommended, and it is suggested to stay clear of hot, fizzy, and alcoholic beverages in the first couple of days. As far as food goes, choosing more soft food such as yogurt can help you avoid strain and increased pain.
Often, the dentist prescribes a pain medication to take to minimize discomfort. You may also need to use an icepack to deal with possible swelling.
Contact Tempe Smile Design
Finding great dental care in Tempe is important for both preventative care and to address any dental problems you may have. If you are experiencing dental issues including pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth, contact Tempe Smile Design. Make an appointment today or give us a call to receive the quality and professional dental care you deserve.
CALL US: (480) 829-8200 REQUEST APPOINTMENT