The wisdom teeth are the third set of molars and the final teeth most people will receive in their lifetimes, and they typically begin to emerge around a person’s late teens or early twenties. In many cases, these large molars can cause a great deal of discomfort and present serious oral health risks, so it’s often best to have a qualified dental professional extract them. Here’s a quick look at how wisdom tooth extraction works, what to expect while recovering, and how to keep your healing process comfortable and complication-free.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
The wisdom tooth extraction process always begins with the patient receiving a suitable anesthetic to ensure their comfort, and they may receive sedation treatment if necessary to help them stay calm and still. When the patient is ready, their dentist will use a specialized device called an elevator to lift the teeth from their sockets and carefully work them loose with forceps. The dentist will then stitch the extraction sites shut. The patient will probably need a trusted person to drive them home after the treatment since they will most likely be feeling the effects of the anesthesia for the rest of the day.
What Happens When Recovering After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
While the process of removing the wisdom teeth is painless, the patient will probably experience some discomfort as their anesthesia wears off. This may include symptoms like:
- Swelling
- Intermittent bleeding
- Difficulty speaking or chewing
The symptoms should improve each day, and you should be able to reduce them with prescribed pain medication. However, please call your dentist if you experience worsening pain or signs of infection such as a nasty taste in your mouth.
How Can I Stay Comfortable After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Your dentist will be happy to provide you with detailed aftercare instructions so you know exactly how to stay comfortable and minimize your risk of complications after wisdom tooth extraction. These will probably include:
- Resuming normal oral hygiene habits the next day while taking special care to be gentle near the extraction sites
- Taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as instructed
- Changing your gauze when needed
- Sticking to a soft diet of items like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, boneless chicken or fish, and soup
- Abstaining from tobacco and alcohol
- Avoiding foods and beverages that are especially hot, acidic, or sweet
- Refraining from spitting or drinking through a straw since these actions can disturb the healing surgical sites
- Taking a break from intense physical exercise for at least the first day
Wisdom tooth extraction may be the best way to preserve your oral health and restore your comfort. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your smile in great shape for life.
About the Practice
Riviera Family Dentistry of Mesquite offers the most excellent oral healthcare in town. Led by Drs. Arnold, Koo, Patel, Hwangpo, and Layth, the staff treats each patient with courtesy while maintaining a calm and clean office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as wisdom tooth extractions. If your wisdom teeth are giving you trouble, contact the office online or dial (214) 764-0112.