Your dentist may have recently told you that you need your wisdom teeth removed and referred you to an oral surgeon. Wisdom teeth typically develop when you are 17-25 years old, and your dentist will typically see them in your x-rays. Some people can keep them without any issues, but a majority of people do need them removed to prevent future problems.
What Should You Expect When You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
This procedure can be done in a dentist’s or surgeon’s office, or in extreme cases, you may have the surgery in a hospital. Every patient’s needs are unique and should be assessed by a qualified dentist.
If you have any type of infections or gum disease, you may likely need to clear it up with antibiotics before you are able to proceed with the surgery.
Before your wisdom teeth extraction commences, you may be put under a stronger anesthetic that will put you to sleep throughout the duration of the operation. If you are being treated using this type of anesthetic for your wisdom teeth removal surgery, your dentist or surgeon will recommend that you do not eat or drink after midnight the night before the surgery.
To remove your wisdom teeth, your dentist will open up the gum tissue over your wisdom teeth and extract the teeth. After the tooth or teeth are removed, you may need stitches, which will then be removed a few days later, or they may dissolve on their own. Gauze will be placed in your mouth to absorb any of the bleeding after the operation.
What to Expect After Surgery
Every individual’s oral health needs are different. Some people can go back to work the next day and others might need a few days or a week to recover from surgery. You may experience some pain and swelling where your wisdom tooth was removed or bleeding for the next 24 hours after removal. You may also feel pain and discomfort when opening or moving your jaw.
Your dentist or surgeon may recommend a few things you can do to help with the recovery process, such as the following:
- Putting a cold compress on your jaw to reduce swelling
- Drinking lots of water and fluids
- Take pain medication prescribed to you
- Avoid using a straw or smoking
- Do not eat any hard foods that may open the wounds in your mouth
- If you experience high fever or excessive swelling, contact a Doctor ASAP
If your wisdom teeth are not causing you any problems, it may be hard to make the decision to have them removed. It is recommended to follow the advice of your dentist, as they are trained professionals who know the risks and benefits involved in getting your wisdom teeth removed.
Call us anytime to book an appointment with Roseland Family Dental, located in Windsor. We can help you become more informed about your wisdom teeth and help you with all of your dental needs!
