Wisdom Teeth Extraction & Care

Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure that many people undergo during their late teens or early twenties, but this could happen at any age. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt at the back of your mouth. Due to various reasons such as lack of space or misalignment, wisdom teeth often need to be extracted to prevent potential dental issues. If you’re scheduled to have your wisdom teeth removed, here’s what you can generally expect during and after the procedure:

1. Consultation and examination: Before the extraction, you will have a consultation with our dentist. We will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. We will discuss the procedure with you, explain any potential risks, and answer your questions.

2. Preparing for the procedure: Our dentist (or oral surgeon, if you are referred to a surgeon) will provide you with instructions to follow before the surgery. These instructions may include fasting for a certain period before the procedure, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for someone to drive you home afterward since you’ll likely be under the influence of anaesthesia.

3. Anaesthesia: Wisdom tooth extraction is typically performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. In some cases, general anaesthesia may be used, especially if you have anxiety about the procedure, or the procedure is too complicated. Our dentist or oral surgeon will discuss the best option for you.

4. Extraction process: Once you are comfortably numb, the dentist or oral surgeon will begin the extraction. The procedure sometimes involves making an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. The dentist or oral surgeon will remove the tooth carefully, clean the area, and stitch the incision if necessary. A lot of time, an incision is not necessary and the tooth may come out easily.

5. Post-operative care: After the extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions for post-operative care. This may include information on managing bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. You may be advised to apply ice packs to your face to reduce swelling, take pain medication as prescribed, and avoid certain activities such as smoking and drinking through a straw.

6. Recovery period: The recovery time after wisdom tooth extraction varies from person to person. You can expect some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding in the first few days. It’s normal to experience difficulty in opening your mouth fully and eating certain foods. It’s essential to follow the post-operative instructions carefully and maintain good oral hygiene to promote healing.

7. Follow-up visit: Dentist at Sandgate Dentist may schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your progress and remove any stitches if needed. During this visit, they will ensure that your gums are healing properly and address any concerns or complications that may have arisen.

While complications are rare, they can occur. It’s important to be aware of potential risks such as infection, dry socket (a condition where the blood clot that normally forms after extraction dislodges or dissolves), and nerve damage. Sandgate Dentist will provide you with information on how to minimize these risks and what signs to watch for.

Remember, every individual’s experience with wisdom tooth extraction can be different, and the complexity of the procedure may vary depending on the position and condition of your teeth. It’s crucial to have open communication with your dentist or oral surgeon, ask questions, and follow their guidance throughout the process.