Wisdom tooth extraction refers to the process of removing one or more of your third molars. Wisdom teeth often need to be removed when they cause pain, infection, crowding or other problems. If you’ve been told you need your wisdom teeth extracted, here’s what you need to know about wisdom tooth extraction before, during and after the procedure.
The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process in Milton
If you are looking into wisdom tooth extraction in Milton, ON your dentist will first perform a dental exam and take X-rays. X-rays will help your dentist see how your wisdom teeth are positioned and help determine how easily they can be removed.
Do I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Wisdom teeth are the teeth located furthest towards the back of your mouth. For some people, there is enough space in their mouth for wisdom teeth to erupt without any problems. However issues can occur when there isn’t enough room for the teeth to properly erupt.
If your wisdom tooth does not have enough room to erupt it can become trapped under the gum tissue, grow sideways, push against another tooth, or become hard to keep clean. These problems may lead to pain, swelling, infection, tooth decay and gum disease.
Your dentist in Milton may recommend that you have your wisdom teeth removed if they are currently causing problems or if they don’t have enough room to erupt and are likely to cause problems in the future.
Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
During the initial appointment for wisdom tooth extraction your dentist will perform an examination of your mouth and review your dental X-rays. X-rays will show your dentist where your wisdom tooth is located in relation to other teeth, bone and surrounding structures.
Your medical history will be discussed as well. This includes any medications you are taking, any allergies you may have and any medical problems that may impact treatment or recovery.
You can also use this time to ask your dentist any questions you have about the procedure itself, types of anesthesia, recovery, and aftercare. Your dentist will let you know what type of extraction to expect.
During wisdom teeth removal surgery
Before the tooth is removed your dentist will numb the area with local anesthetic. When this has taken effect, you should not feel any sharp pain during treatment. You may sense pressure or movement, but you should not be uncomfortable.
If your wisdom tooth has erupted fully, your dentist can loosen the tooth carefully with dental instruments and remove it.
If your wisdom tooth is impacted (buried in the gum), they may cut a small slit in the gum to access the tooth. Sometimes it is necessary to remove a bit of bone around the tooth or cut the tooth into smaller pieces before you can safely remove it.
Afterwards your dentist will clean the area around the extraction and place stitches if necessary.
Wisdom teeth removal recovery time
Wisdom tooth extraction recovery time varies from patient to patient and depends on how many teeth your dentist is removing and how difficult each extraction is.
Your dentist will have a better idea of how long your procedure will take after reviewing your X-rays. If the tooth is difficult to access because it hasn’t fully erupted, it can take longer to complete the extraction.
Your recovery time largely depends on how closely you follow your dentist’s post-procedure instructions and how well you care for your teeth following surgery. You should plan to take at least a couple days off from school or work.
Aftercare for wisdom tooth extraction
After having your wisdom teeth removed, some swelling, tenderness and minor bleeding is to be expected. These symptoms should subside within the first few days.
The aftercare instructions you will receive from your dentist will help you avoid disturbing the area while it heals. For the first few days after surgery, it is best to get plenty of rest and eat soft foods.
You can also use a cold compress to keep swelling down. Try to eat soft foods for the first few days after wisdom teeth removal. Anything that requires minimal chewing is ideal. Yogurt, mashed potatoes, eggs, oatmeal and lukewarm soup are good options.
Taking care of your teeth after wisdom teeth removal
There are certain activities you should avoid after wisdom teeth removal to allow the area to heal undisturbed. Smoking, vaping, rinsing your mouth vigorously, and drinking with a straw can disrupt the healing process.
How Long Is Wisdom Tooth Recovery?
Extraction site healing varies from patient to patient. Some people begin feeling better within a few days. However, the area will continue to heal for a longer period of time.
Factors such as difficulty of the extraction, number of teeth extracted, and overall health can impact recovery time.
You may need to avoid strenuous activity and exercise for the first few days. Your dentist can advise you on when it’s okay to resume your normal activities.
What Is Dry Socket?
When a tooth gets extracted, a blood clot should form in the socket. This clot protects the bone and nerves underneath while the wound heals.
Dry socket happens when the blood clot becomes dislodged or doesn’t develop correctly. Severe pain a few days after the extraction is one of the main symptoms.
To prevent dry socket, be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions after the extraction. If your pain gets worse or you have concerns about how your wisdom teeth are healing, call your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Tooth Extraction
When Are My Wisdom Teeth Due to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth are often removed between the ages of 17 and 21. The late teens and early twenties are typically when teeth start to emerge through the gums; however, wisdom teeth do not always become problematic and require removal. If you need to have one or more wisdom teeth extracted, it may be possible to schedule your appointment sooner.
Do You Feel Pain When Wisdom Teeth Are Extracted?
Local anesthetic will be used to numb the treatment area; therefore, you should not feel anything sharp when the tooth is being removed. You may feel pressure or movement during extraction. Some discomfort is normal following treatment and can typically be controlled by following your dentist’s recommendations.
How Long Should I Take Off Work After Wisdom Teeth Are Removed?
Many people are able to return to work or school within a couple of days. Since recovery time varies based on the complexity of the procedure and your job responsibilities, some patients who had a complicated extraction may need additional time off from work. Your dentist will be able to offer guidance based on your specific treatment.
Can You Drive After Wisdom Teeth Are Extracted?
Driving after your appointment will depend on the anesthesia or sedation you receive. Some dental offices allow patients to drive home after having their wisdom teeth extracted; however, if sedation was provided during your appointment you will need to have someone drive you home. Our team at the dental office will go over any transportation requirements with you before your procedure.
How Long Until I Can Eat Normal Food After Wisdom Teeth Are Removed?
Many patients start with softer foods and slowly transition back to their normal diet as their symptoms improve. It’s best to avoid hard, crunchy foods or very chewy foods near the extraction site.
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Having wisdom teeth does not necessarily mean you will need to have them extracted. Often times teeth are removed because they are impacted, painful, infected, hard to keep clean, damaging other teeth, or causing another concern. During your dental exam, your dentist will take a look at your X-rays to determine if extraction is necessary.
When Should I Call the Dentist After Wisdom Teeth Are Extracted?
Call your dentist if you experience pain that gets significantly worse instead of better over time, bleeding persists, you experience severe swelling, or you develop new symptoms that concern you. Your dentist will be able to examine the area and decide if you need additional treatment.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Milton
Having pain or swelling in the back of your mouth can be a signal that something is wrong with your wisdom teeth. Perhaps you have already visited with your dentist or doctor and you’ve been told that your wisdom teeth should be extracted.
Milton Dentist Removes Wisdom Teeth
Your dentist will take a look at your teeth and let you know if extraction is necessary. They will be able to review your X-rays and explain why you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed. If it’s determined that you do require extraction, your dentist can explain what you can expect during the procedure.
Get Dental Wisdom Teeth Treatment in Milton
Having your wisdom teeth extracted does not have to be something you dread. By knowing what to expect during each phase of treatment you will feel comfortable with the process. Your dentist will walk you through every step of your wisdom tooth extraction and offer personalized care based on your needs.
Are you searching for wisdom teeth removal in Milton? Contact our dental office to learn more about our wisdom tooth extraction treatment. We can help you evaluate your wisdom teeth and decide if having them removed is your best option for long-term oral health.
