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Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure in fixing issues with your last set of molars. However, they’re very different from your usual simple extraction and usually require more care post-procedure.
Your dentist may suggest having your wisdom teeth removed because they could be impacted, infected, or come out at the wrong angle. Whatever your cause is, wisdom teeth extractions can be a scary procedure, which is why people often have many questions regarding the procedure.
In this article, we will share with you eight frequently asked questions and the answers to them:
1. “What are the symptoms of wisdom teeth?”
It is important to understand that some people do not have any noticeable symptoms of wisdom teeth pain. However, for those who do, they experience pain in the jaw, swelling around the gums, tenderness, and even a discharge if an infection is present.
2. “Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?”
Some people develop all four of their wisdom teeth, while others develop three or less. They come out at the back of your mouth and are the ones to develop last. Your jaws, however, may not be big enough to accommodate these emerging teeth. The result is that these third molars come in at an angle, or don’t fully emerge at times.
Your wisdom teeth can damage adjacent teeth and cause overcrowding. In such situations, it is best to have them removed at an early stage before they grow further and cause dental issues that would require more complicated surgery.
3. “What is an impacted wisdom tooth?”
A wisdom tooth is impacted if it did not emerge and break through the gum because there’s not enough space for them. Partially impacted teeth are those that have broken through the gums slightly – you will see a part of the tooth coming from the gum. Oftentimes, however, impacted teeth are only discovered through x-rays.
4. “What happens if I do not remove my wisdom teeth?”
If you are experiencing symptoms, not removing your wisdom teeth can lead to more serious dental issues. These problems include alignment issues, damage to surrounding teeth, jaw damage, and infection in gums.
5. “How different is wisdom teeth removal from a simple extraction?”
Since wisdom teeth often come in at a more angled position (and some of them are also impacted), extraction may requires a more meticulous procedure. At times, it may even involve making incisions in the gum tissue to access the tooth and remove it properly.
Wisdom teeth also usually have multiple roots in irregular shapes, making them more difficult to extract. This is why it is best to detect them early on to avoid future complications.
6. “Will I feel pain during the procedure?”
Before the extraction, anesthesia will be administered to you to minimize the pain. The type of anesthesia that will be given to you will usually depend on the complexity of the extraction.
7. “How long is the recovery period for wisdom teeth extractions?”
A 48-hour of complete rest after the extraction is recommended, and recovery usually takes seven to ten days. However, depending on your condition and how you care for the extraction site, this period can be shorter or longer. Additionally, any rigorous physical activity and travel are discouraged, as these activities can dislodge the blood clot forming on the extraction site and cause you further discomfort.
8. “Can I brush my teeth after the extraction?”
If you want the blood clot and extraction site to heal faster, remember to avoid brushing your teeth and gargling for the first 24 hours. Excessive spitting, drinking through straws, and drinking hot liquids, such as coffee and soup, should be avoided as well. After a day, you may resume brushing your teeth, but be gentle around the site. Also, refrain from gargling vigorously until you are cleared to do so during your next appointment.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal can be an uncomfortable and overwhelming procedure, especially after hearing the horror stories from other people. Nevertheless, by taking note of the questions given above, you will be able to keep your gums and teeth healthy and avoid further complications!
If you need wisdom teeth removal in Waterford, we’re here to help! We have the latest dental technologies and a team of trained staff to provide you with the best service. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment with us!
