(954) 589-0292
Wisdom Teeth Extraction for Optimal Long-Term Oral Health
If you find yourself in need of a wisdom teeth extraction, you're not alone. It's common for people to not have enough room in their mouths for all four wisdom teeth, leading to impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause discomfort, shift other teeth, and create spaces where food can get trapped, increasing the risk of infection and decay. That's why we often recommend removing wisdom teeth. When you come to Smiland Dental, we will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and help you schedule the extraction at the best time. Contact us today at (954) 589-0292 to make an appointment.
Can you describe the procedure?
The first step in wisdom teeth extraction involves administering anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Some dentists or oral surgeons may also offer nitrous oxide or sedatives to help you relax and make you more comfortable during the procedure. This can also reduce any memory of the extraction process.
If your wisdom teeth have erupted straight, the extraction process is usually simple and can be done without surgery using dental tools. However, if your wisdom teeth are impacted, oral surgery is necessary. The dentist will need to open the gum tissue covering the tooth to access it. Once the area is numbed, a flap in the gum tissue is created to allow the dentist or oral surgeon to see the tooth. Any bone or muscle obstructing the tooth will be removed for better access.
The dentist will try to lift the tooth out of the socket, but if it is difficult, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier extraction. After the tooth is completely removed, the area will be cleaned thoroughly, and the gum flap will be sutured back into place. Gauze will then be applied to control bleeding.
After wisdom teeth extraction, what are the recommended aftercare steps?
Following your wisdom teeth extraction, you will need to remain at the dental office until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. The staff will closely monitor you to ensure that bleeding has slowed and the gauze is effectively controlling it. Once you are stable, you will be allowed to go home, but please arrange for someone to drive you as you will not be able to drive yourself.
At Smiland Dental, we recommend that patients prepare in advance for their recovery. Create a comfortable resting area at home with extra pillows to elevate your head. Keep your nightstand stocked with water, extra gauze, ibuprofen, and entertainment such as books or movies. It is important to take it easy for the next 48 hours. Stick to soft foods like popsicles, ice cream, yogurt, soup, and Jell-O as they do not require chewing.
To reduce swelling, apply ice to your face for 15-minute intervals and take ibuprofen regularly for the first 24 to 48 hours. You may still need ibuprofen after that, but you can discontinue using ice.
As you progress in your healing, slowly reintroduce solid foods into your diet, starting with soft options and gradually moving on. Be patient as your recovery may take up to two weeks. Avoid crunchy or hard foods like nuts and chips during this time as they can irritate your healing gums.
A follow-up appointment with your dentist will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and give you the go-ahead to resume your regular eating habits.
Recovery time for wisdom teeth extraction varies depending on the individual
The initial 48 hours are critical, as bleeding, pressure, and swelling may occur during this period. It usually takes one to two weeks to fully recover, depending on the procedure's complexity and whether surgery was involved in extracting your wisdom teeth.
Preventing Infection After Removal: Tips and Guidelines
As dentists, we are always mindful of the risk of infections after surgery, such as wisdom teeth removal or other tooth extractions. To reduce this risk, we recommend rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater regularly and maintaining good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth, especially around the surgical site. In some cases, we may also prescribe an antibiotic mouth rinse for added protection against infection.
Is it truly necessary to have wisdom teeth extracted?
At Smiland Dental, we understand that each patient and their dental needs are unique. The decision to remove wisdom teeth depends on the size of your palate. If there is enough room for your third molars to come in properly, removal may not be necessary. However, impacted wisdom teeth can cause harm to surrounding teeth and increase the risk of infection. To determine if your wisdom teeth should be removed, schedule a consultation with us. Call (954) 589-0292 to make an appointment, and we will offer a recommendation and address any concerns you may have about the procedure.