Wisdom Tooth Removal
Eruption of the last pair of molars, known as wisdom teeth, normally happens during late adolescence or early adulthood. As the wisdom teeth attempt to go through the gum line, some people may have pain, swelling, or even infection. However, some may have no problems at all. I answer questions about wisdom teeth extraction, what to anticipate during the procedure, and how to handle recuperation thereafter as a dentist on a regular basis. Let’s explore everything you need to know about it!
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Wisdom teeth can be unpredictable. Sometimes, they grow in without a hitch, but other times they can become a source of discomfort. Here’s why:
- Impacted teeth: Wisdom teeth sometimes lack enough space to emerge correctly, causing them to get “impacted.” This means they may push against nearby teeth or remain trapped beneath the gumline.
- Crowding: If your mouth doesn’t have adequate space, wisdom teeth can shift out of position and force neighboring teeth out of alignment. The crowding may also cause inability to brush properly in such areas leading to cavity formation.
- Gum irritation or infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria can collect, leading to gum infections and discomfort.
Pain and Discomfort Related to Wisdom Teeth
If you’re feeling pain or swelling at the back of your mouth, then it might be due to your wisdom teeth. Symptoms often include:
- Tenderness or swelling in the gums around the wisdom and adjacent teeth.
- Jaw pain, particularly when chewing or opening your mouth.
- Difficulty eating because of pressure or sensitivity.
While pain relievers and warm saltwater rinses can help ease the symptoms temporarily, persistent pain is a sign that removal may be necessary.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: What to Expect
Wisdom teeth removal is typically advised when these teeth lead to pain, crowding, or infection. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:
- Preparation: Before starting, your dentist or oral surgeon will use local anesthesia to numb the area. If needed, sedation may also be offered to help you feel more comfortable.
- Extraction: The dentist will make a small cut in the gum to access the tooth. If the tooth is impacted, it may need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Duration: The procedure typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity.
Most people recover well after the extraction, with minimal complications.
Post-Removal Care
Proper care after wisdom teeth removal is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some important aftercare tips:
- Manage pain and swelling: Use prescribed pain medications or over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Ice packs can also help reduce swelling in the first 24-48 hours.
- Soft foods: Stick to soft foods like rice and lentil soup, yogurt or mashed potatoes for the inital week to avoid irritating the extraction site.
- Avoid straws: The blood clot gets dislodged in the socket and cause a painful condition known as dry socket.
- Rinse gently: You can rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. Be gentle to avoid disrupting the healing site. This should be done 24 hours after the extraction.
- Stay elevated: Prop your head up with pillows when resting to reduce swelling and help with healing.
When to Contact Your Dentist
After surgery, pain and swelling are common, but be on the lookout for any indicators of problems, such as:
- Terrible pain that doesn't go away with medicine
- Fever, which could be signs of an infection
- A bad taste in the mouth due to pus discharge could indicate an infection at the site of the extraction.
Get in touch with your dentist right away for an assessment if you encounter any of these symptoms.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal might sound daunting, but it’s a straightforward procedure that can significantly improve your oral health and comfort. If you’re experiencing pain or swelling in the back of your mouth, let’s discuss whether removing your wisdom teeth is the right choice for you. With the right preparation and post-care, you’ll be back to smiling pain-free in no time!