Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. For many individuals, these teeth can cause overcrowding, misalignment, pain, or even infections, necessitating their removal. If you have been advised to undergo wisdom teeth extraction, understanding the procedure can help ease any concerns you may have.

Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth extracted, but common reasons for removal include:

•          Impaction: When the teeth do not have enough room to emerge properly, they can become trapped under the gums.

•          Crowding: Wisdom teeth can shift other teeth, leading to alignment issues.

•          Infection or Decay: Since they are located far back in the mouth, wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, making them more prone to cavities and infections.

•          Pain and Swelling: Some patients experience persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty opening their mouths due to impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth.

Your oral surgeon will guide you through the entire process, but here’s a general overview of what to expect.

Pre-Procedure Consultation

Before the extraction, you will have a consultation where the oral surgeon will examine your teeth using X-rays. This helps determine the position of your wisdom teeth and whether a simple or surgical extraction is necessary. You will also discuss anesthesia options, including local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure and your comfort level.

The Day of the Procedure

On the day of your extraction, you will be prepped for the procedure, and anesthesia will be administered to ensure you remain comfortable.

•          Simple Extraction: If the wisdom teeth have fully erupted, the dentist will loosen and remove them using specialized dental tools.

•          Surgical Extraction: If the teeth are impacted (trapped beneath the gums), a small incision will be made in the gum to access and remove them. In some cases, the tooth may be divided into sections for easier extraction.

The entire procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity.

Post-Extraction Recovery

Once the extraction is complete, you will be given gauze to control bleeding. Your dentist or surgeon will provide aftercare instructions, including:

•          Managing Swelling and Discomfort: Applying ice packs to the outside of your face can help reduce swelling, while over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication can help alleviate discomfort.

•          Dietary Restrictions: Soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes are recommended for the first few days. Avoid hard, spicy, or hot foods that may irritate the extraction site.

•          Oral Hygiene: While you should avoid brushing near the surgical area for the first 24 hours, you can gently rinse your mouth with salt water to keep the area clean. Avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket, a painful complication.

Most patients recover within a week, with swelling and soreness typically subsiding within the first few days. If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common and generally well-tolerated procedure that can prevent future dental complications. By knowing what to expect before, during, and after surgery, you can feel more prepared and confident about the process.

If you are experiencing pain or have been advised to remove your wisdom teeth, schedule a consultation with Weston Center for Plastic Surgery to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Contact our office in Weston, Florida, by calling 954-507-4540 to book an appointment today.