Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common dental procedures, and for many patients, it’s a necessary step to prevent future complications. At BOOM Smiles, our dentists, Dr. Bhumesh Hirapara and Dr. Ecio Pozzi, strive to make every dental procedure as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you’ve been told you need your wisdom teeth removed, here’s what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge, typically appearing in your late teens or early twenties. For many people, there isn’t enough room in the mouth to accommodate these additional teeth, which can lead to:
Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth that don’t fully emerge from the gums can become impacted, leading to pain, swelling, and infection.
Crowding: If there’s not enough space for the wisdom teeth, they can push against neighboring teeth, causing alignment issues and potentially undoing orthodontic work.
Cysts or Infections: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes cause cysts to form, which can damage surrounding bone and tissues. They are also more prone to infections due to their difficult-to-reach position.
At BOOM Smiles, we approach wisdom tooth removal with your comfort and care in mind. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Consultation and X-rays: Before the procedure, we’ll conduct a comprehensive exam, including X-rays, to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. This helps us determine the best course of action for your removal and gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.
Anesthesia Options: Depending on the complexity of the extraction, we offer different anesthesia options to ensure you remain comfortable. You may receive local anesthesia (to numb the specific area), sedation (to relax you), or general anesthesia (to put you to sleep for the duration of the procedure).
The Extraction Process: The actual removal of the wisdom teeth typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. If the tooth is impacted, a small incision will be made in the gum to access it. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to facilitate its removal. You won’t feel any pain during the procedure due to the anesthesia, though you may experience some pressure.
Post-Surgery Recovery: After the extraction, we’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. You may experience some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding, which are all normal parts of the healing process. Applying ice packs and taking prescribed pain medications will help manage these symptoms. You’ll also be advised to avoid strenuous activity, smoking, and certain foods for the first few days to allow for optimal healing.
Swelling and Bruising: Some degree of swelling and bruising around the jaw is common, especially within the first 48 hours. This can be managed by applying ice packs and taking anti-inflammatory medications.
Dietary Restrictions: For the first 24 hours after surgery, it’s best to stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as you heal.
Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean is important during the healing process. Rinse gently with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery, but avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, as this could dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
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