Wisdom teeth removal is an extremely common practice in dental procedures. Most people will, at one time or another, have to have their wisdom teeth removed. Whether you’re a patient who has just been told that it is time to say goodbye to your wisdom teeth or are somebody interested in knowing how it works, this article will walk you through what to know both before and after the procedure.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
These last sets of molars are the wisdom teeth, usually at the back of your mouth, and generally come in during the late teens or early twenties. For most people, however, they can cause many dental problems.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal?
- Impaction: Sometimes, the wisdom teeth can get impacted. This means there is less space for the tooth to erupt completely. The problem may also result in pain, infection, or even affect the nearby tooth.
- Crowding: Impaction of wisdom teeth is the cause of crowding. This means it misaligns and shifts your other teeth.
- Infections: Sometimes, the wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth are hard to clean and can cause infections or gum diseases.
Before the Procedure
Consultation with a Dentist
First, you will have to see a dentist or oral surgeon. The dentist will examine the inside of your mouth and take X-rays of the wisdom teeth. They will determine if there is any need for removal and, if so, formulate a treatment plan for you.
Anesthesia Options
Before the procedure, you will discuss with your dentist how you would like to be numbed. They do the local numbing, sedation, or even general anesthesia—whatever is required and makes you comfortable. Your dentist will explain every single detail so that you can make an informed decision on which one you would want to go for.
Pre-Operative Instructions
Your dentist will give you a set of instructions to follow before the procedure, from what to eat and what medications to avoid to how to prepare for the procedure. This is for everything to be by plan.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Wisdom teeth removal is usually done at a dentist’s office or oral surgery center. It might take a few minutes to over an hour, depending on how hard it is. Here’s what to expect:
- Anesthesia: We’ll use anesthesia to keep you comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
- Tooth Extraction: The dentist will cut your gum to get to the tooth. The tooth might be cut into pieces to make it easier to remove.
- Stitching: After removing the tooth, the dentist will stitch your gum to help it heal.
- Recovery Room: You’ll rest in a recovery room while the anesthesia wears off and we check that you’re okay.
After the Procedure
Recovery Period
How long it takes to recover after getting your wisdom teeth removed can differ for everyone. But here are some basic tips to follow:
- Swelling and Discomfort: You might feel swollen and sore for a few days. Use an ice pack and take pain medicine to help with this.
- Diet: Eat only soft foods for a few days to a week to avoid problems or pain.
- Oral Care: Brush your teeth gently, especially near the surgery area. You might get a special mouthwash to help heal.
Follow-Up Appointments
It’s important to go to all your follow-up appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon. They will check how you are healing, remove stitches if needed, and help with any problems.
Long-Term Oral Health
Extraction of wisdom teeth fixes existing problems and prevents future ones, keeping your smile healthy and reducing the possibility of dental issues later on.
Conclusion
Extraction of wisdom teeth is a very common procedure to avert dental issues and to maintain good health in your mouth. Discuss what is going to happen with your dentist in Kelowna, and follow his advice concerning aftercare. Always ask questions if you are not sure. Looking after your teeth and general health go hand in hand.
For more information on wisdom teeth removal in Kelowna or to schedule a consultation, contact Us today.