Wisdom Tooth Removal:
A Guide to Understanding the Procedure

At The Practice, we understand that wisdom tooth removal can be a concern for many patients. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, consider the extraction of your wisdom teeth.

What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Should They Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set to emerge, appearing between 17 and 25. Alas, our jaws leave insufficient space for these other teeth to develop. As a result, they can become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum line or jawbone, leading to oral health problems such as pain, infection, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth.

Where are Wisdom Teeth?

These teeth are located in the back of the mouth, one on each side of the upper and lower jaws. The position and location of wisdom teeth can vary. In some cases, they may align with the other teeth, while in others, they may remain impacted or partially erupted. Impacted wisdom teeth fail to emerge from the gums due to lack of space or obstruction.

What if I wait too long to remove wisdom teeth?

This can lead to many potential complications. As wisdom teeth emerge, they can become impacted, causing pain, inflammation, and infection. Over time, they may shift and push against neighboring teeth, resulting in misalignment and crowding. If untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to cyst formation, damaging the jawbone. 

Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Issues

Pain and discomfort are the most prevalent signs. The pain can vary depending on the issue. The intensity can range from mild to severe and may worsen when biting down or chewing. Swelling and inflammation are other signs. When there is insufficient space for the wisdom teeth to emerge, they can become trapped beneath the gum line. This can lead to swelling, causing discomfort.

Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal

By extracting wisdom teeth, we can prevent complications such as overcrowding, misalignment, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom tooth removal also reduces the risk of infections and cyst formation, which can lead to more severe problems. 

Moreover, wisdom teeth are in the back of the mouth, making cleaning challenging. This can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Removing them can improve your oral hygiene and reduce the likelihood of dental problems. Overall, wisdom teeth removal is a proactive step in safeguarding oral health and preserving your pearly whites.

Types of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth extraction can vary, each with its process, considerations, and potential complications. In this section, we delve into the details of each to provide a comprehensive understanding of the procedures.

Simple Extraction: A simple extraction is performed when the wisdom teeth have erupted through the gum line and are easy to access. The process begins with administering local anesthesia to numb the surrounding area. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the dentist or oral surgeon uses specialized instruments, such as forceps, to grasp the tooth and move it to loosen it from the jawbone. Then the tooth is removed from its socket.

Surgical Extraction: Surgical extraction becomes necessary when the wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they have not surfaced or have grown at an angle that prevents proper alignment. The procedure requires a surgical approach to access and remove the impacted teeth. During surgical extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon must incision the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth. Sometimes, a small amount of bone may be removed for better access. Once the tooth is visible, it is often sectioned into smaller pieces. After the tooth is extracted, the incision is sutured.

The Procedure of Wisdom Tooth Removal 

Our dentists conduct the wisdom tooth removal procedure at The Practice. Before the surgery, we will examine your mouth using X-rays to assess the position and condition of the wisdom teeth. Local anesthesia or sedation will ensure your comfort during the procedure. The dentist will then make a small incision in the gum to access the impacted tooth and may need to remove some bone to gain access. The tooth will be extracted, and the incision will be closed with dissolvable stitches. The entire procedure takes 45 minutes to an hour, and our team will provide you with post-operative instructions for a smooth recovery.

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal

After The Practice’s wisdom tooth removal procedure, you may experience swelling and discomfort in the first few days. Our team will provide aftercare instructions, including pain management techniques and guidelines on proper oral hygiene. It is essential to follow these instructions to ensure a speedy recovery. 

Here are some general tips to aid the healing:

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort. Our dentists will recommend the most suitable options.

• Oral Hygiene: This is crucial for preventing infections. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and brush your teeth with care, avoiding the surgical site.

• Diet: A soft and easily chewable diet for the first few days to avoid putting undue pressure on the surgical site. Avoid consuming hot or spicy foods that may irritate the area.

• Rest: Allow plenty of rest in the days after the procedure. Avoid strenuous activities that could impede the healing process.

• Avoid Smoking: Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products, as they can hinder healing and increase the risk of complications.

Most patients can resume activities within a few days to a week after the wisdom tooth removal. However, every individual’s healing process differs, so follow your dentist’s instructions for a successful recovery.

What not to eat after wisdom tooth removal

In the aftermath of wisdom tooth removal, be mindful of what you consume to ensure a smooth recovery. We recommend avoiding certain foods that may impede healing and cause discomfort. Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods like nuts, chips, and sticky candies could irritate the surgical site or dislodge blood clots, leading to potential complications. Additionally, hot and spicy foods may exacerbate post-operative discomfort and inflammation. Instead, opt for options like smoothies, soups, yogurt, and mashed potatoes to provide nourishment without putting undue strain on the healing area.