Wisdom Teeth Removal: What To Expect

As people grow older, the last set of molars called wisdom teeth start to develop. Due to them typically developing to the point of crowding other teeth, dentists often recommend wisdom teeth removal to avert complications. When wisdom teeth start to ache, most people visit the dentist to have it removed.

Wisdom teeth removal is performed through a surgical procedure to safely and correctly extract the wisdom before they cause further issues.

The Process of Removal

If you have booked an appointment with the dentist to have your wisdom teeth extracted, then you should be familiar with the process.

First, the dentist will conduct an X-ray scan of your mouth to check the growth and size of the teeth. This will help the dentist ascertain the position of the wisdom teeth and their rate of growth.

Afterward, the dentist will inject a local anesthetic into the gums and the surroundings of the wisdom tooth. This will render you numb and unable to feel pain while the procedure lasts. In some situations, they may administer nitrous oxide to calm your nerves or keep you completely sedated. The choices are usually dependent on the patient.

The dentist will then make incisions in the tissue and bones around the wisdom teeth to extract them from your mouth. Although the process is similar to typical tooth removal, wisdom tooth develop straight from the jawbone and are therefore more difficult and painful.

After removing the wisdom teeth, the dental expert will then proceed to meticulously clean the socket before stitching up the incision to give room for healing.

The Process of Recovery

After wisdom tooth removal, the dentist will give you gauze to place inside your mouth to aid in blood clotting in the socket and quicker healing. It is normal to see and taste small amounts of blood for some days while your mouth heal. The bleeding should reduce soon enough. If it does not, reach out to your dentist so they can check the area to make sure infection has not set in.

You will also get prescriptions for pain relievers and antibiotics to help your immune system fight off possible infection while you heal.

Avoid smoking and drinking through a straw after wisdom teeth extraction. They often cause dry sockets, which can result in severe pain and complications. Dry sockets happen when blood cannot clot, and the wound is not healing.

As much as possible, keep chewing away from the wisdom tooth area until the wound has healed completely. For the next few days following the procedure, you will only want to consume soft, cold foods such as pudding, yogurt, and ice cream.

Get as much rest as you can and try not to work out for at least three days.

Final Note

The average healing duration after wisdom teeth removal is about five to seven days. Maintain oral hygiene to prevent infections, but try not to brush too close to the wound or you may open up the stitches. Once the healing process is complete, you can return to your normal routine without suffering any discomfort. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Kevin J Daily DDS, request an appointment in our Santa Cruz dental office here: https://www.kevinjdailydds.com. Or call us at (831) 580-1141.

Recent Posts

How Long Is Recovery After A Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Preparing for a wisdom tooth extraction? The procedure often sparks fear in patients because it does involve pulling teeth. However, it is important to know that modern-day technology has allowed for the evolution of better techniques, which reduce pain and recovery time. Nonetheless, it is still important to be familiar with the recovery time and…

When You Should Get A Wisdom Tooth Extraction

A wisdom tooth extraction is a procedure that not a lot of people look forward to. However, these procedures are done in order to avoid future complications such as pain, overcrowding or crookedness, which makes them worthwhile in the end. Wondering when to get a wisdom tooth extraction? There are some scenarios that may make…

Signs To Consider Wisdom Tooth Extractions

A wisdom tooth extraction is often necessary in order to eliminate accompanying symptoms. Many individuals experience the eruption of their wisdom teeth and never notice the signs. However, there are also a lot of cases in which the wisdom teeth present noticeable symptoms that can be used to identify eruption. Teenagers and young adults should…

Signs To Consider Wisdom Tooth Extractions

A Wisdom Tooth Extraction is often necessary in order to eliminate accompanying symptoms. Many individuals experience the eruption of their wisdom teeth and never notice the signs. However, there are also a lot of cases in which the wisdom teeth present noticeable symptoms that can be used to identify eruption. Teenagers and young adults should…


Recent Posts

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Appearance

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Appearance

Have you considered turning to cosmetic dentistry services to restore your smile? If you do not like the way your teeth look, there are solutions. Your cosmetic dentist has multiple options to help you feel good about the way you look once more. You no longer have to hide your face or avoid being around…

A Restorative Dentist Can Save Teeth

A Restorative Dentist Can Save Teeth

Need a restorative dentist? Do you have an awkward smile? Have you been told by friends and family that your teeth need some attention? If so, don't worry! Many dentists can help. One option is to see a dentist  who offers restorative treaetments. This type of dentistry will provide the best options for restoring your…