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Wisdom Teeth Removal: Key Things to Know Before, During and After Treatment
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Wisdom teeth are the last set of permanent teeth that usually appear at the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25.  They may partially come through the gums, causing discomfort or pain. In some people, wisdom teeth never erupt, while in others, they come naturally as other molars, causing no issues at all.

Wisdom teeth may take a bit longer to develop but can cause persistent problems if they are impacted due to insufficient space in the jaw. They may grow at an angle or remain half trapped beneath the gums. This can lead to throbbing pain, swollen gums, infection and other dental complications. Therefore, Hope Island dentists may recommend wisdom tooth extraction or removal.

Before you undergo surgery/treatment with a dentist, here are six things to consider before, during and after the removal process to prevent pain elevation or other complications.

Let’s Get Started!

1. Why is Impacted Wisdom Tooth Removal Important?

When the wisdom tooth grows at an angle or doesn’t have enough space to emerge properly, people may experience persistent pain. It can cause gum swelling, infections, damage to neighbouring teeth and tooth decay.  In short, impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed to prevent oral health issues.

Don’t let the pain worsen, as it can worsen the condition. It is best to visit the dentist Hope Island as early as possible to have them removed.

2.     Things to Remember Before the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Treatment

It is good to prepare in advance to prevent unexpected situations or complications. Here are a few things to remember

Communicate Openly with your Dentist:

A professional dentist always walks you through the process, asks a couple of important questions, and inquires about your medical history.  They’ll review your medical conditions and prescribed medications to rule out potential post-extraction side effects.  So, you must answer their questions honestly and tell them everything related to your health conditions.

After that, they’ll take an X-ray of your mouth to see where your wisdom tooth is located and whether it is impacting your jaw.

Do Not Eat Certain Food Items:

Before wisdom tooth removal, dentists may advise avoiding certain foods, sugary snacks, and beverages, including hard foods like nuts, sticky foods like chewing gum, spicy foods, alcohol, and fried foods, particularly if you are undergoing general anaesthesia.  You need to fast for 6 to 12 hours before the surgery.

If you are undergoing a local anaesthetic, you can have snacks and drinks even an hour before the treatment. Ensure you consult the professional before making any dietary alterations.

3.     During the Wisdom Teeth Removal Process: Things to Know

Understanding the process better can help reduce anxiety and help you undergo treatment without any confusion.

Consider it as a Regular Extraction:

The removal process completely depends on the position and angle of your wisdom tooth. If the tooth is fully erupted, dentists will use an elevator and forceps to remove it.

However, if your tooth is impacted or has not yet erupted through the gum, the dentist will make an incision and drill through the bone to remove the tooth. They will wrap up the process by stitching the area to prevent the infection.

Know the Importance of Anaesthesia:

Local anaesthetic keeps your surgical area numb during the process, while sedation is used to keep you relaxed.  This numbs your teeth and gums to prevent pain during extraction.

The Duration:

The procedure usually takes 40 to 90 minutes depending on the position of your wisdom teeth and other complications.

4.     After the Procedure: Things to Know

Don’t panic post-treatment. Here are a few things to understand:

Post extraction, the local or general anaesthetic gradually fades. So, you may feel the following:

  • Drowsy: Your body is still under the effects of anaesthesia, so that you will feel a little drowsy and weak.  In such a case, have someone drive you home and avoid heavy workouts and physically draining tasks for the next two days.
  • Discomfort: Cutting and grinding through bone will cause a bruise around the affected area. Make sure you take prescribed painkillers on time to reduce pain and discomfort.
  • Swelling: Your gums swell due to bruising. So, it is good to apply ice when you get home. And eat only liquid and soft food for the next four to six days.

Note: See your dentist in Hope Island immediately if the pain escalates.

5.     Things to Do Post Wisdom Tooth Removal

  • Give your body enough time to recover. You must rest for 24-48 hours to promote quick healing.
  • Place an ice pack against your cheek for 10 minutes during the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.
  • Consume yoghurt, smoothies, boiled eggs, soups, and mashed potatoes to keep yourself full and energetic.
  • Brush your teeth carefully and rinse your mouth with warm salt water as advised by your dentist and prevent yourself from TikTok teeth trends.
  • Follow medications and aftercare instructions strictly. Do not smoke or drink alcohol to increase the risk of dry socket.

Wrapping Up

The thought of a wisdom tooth removal procedure may make you nervous, but these expectations will prepare you from the appointment through post-extraction care. You can sit freely in the dental chair and go through the process safely and painlessly.