Has the saying "Growing up is hard to do" ever crossed your mind? Whoever said that probably forgot to mention one of the most painful rites of passage—getting your wisdom teeth extracted. Well, it is not so bad. Yet, it can be intimidating if you are unsure what to anticipate. Fear not; below is everything you need to know about removing wisdom teeth. 

Why Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

Dental professionals recommend extraction because wisdom teeth can cause crowding, impaction, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth, which do not fully emerge from the gums, can be painful. They can also cause inflammation or infection. 

Crowded wisdom teeth can push on other teeth, causing discomfort and dental misalignment. Infection is also common when the gum surrounding the wisdom tooth is difficult to clean. This can lead to bacterial growth.

How Do I Prepare for the Procedure?

Your dentist will give you detailed information on preparing for the extraction. Usually, this entails a period of fasting before the procedure. Moreover, you should avoid drugs like aspirin. 

Some medications can thin the blood and raise the bleeding risk. It is best to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. The anesthesia used during the process can make you drowsy.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The procedure usually takes an hour or less. However, its duration will depend on the number of teeth removed. Before the extraction, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. 

Some dentists might provide anesthesia to calm you down and lessen any pain or anxiety. Once you are numb or sedated, the dentist will cut the gum tissue and remove the tooth. Afterward, they will place gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding and promote clotting.

What Should I Expect After the Procedure?

You may suffer soreness and swelling following the extraction, which is normal. You will receive detailed advice from your dentist on how to deal with any pain or discomfort. It includes relaxation, ice packs, and over-the-counter painkillers. Moreover, your dentist might instruct you to refrain from smoking and using a straw. This is because sucking might cause the clot to loosen and prevent healing.

Recovery

The length of recovery depends on the person. Most patients can return to regular activities a few days after the treatment. The bone can take several months to recover, although the gum tissue usually heals in two weeks. To avoid complications, practice good oral hygiene.

When to Call Your Dentist

See your dentist immediately if you experience strange symptoms. These include excruciating pain, significant bleeding, or infection-related symptoms like fever or pus. If necessary, the dentist can recommend an expert or advise you on handling any issues.

Conclusion 

Wisdom teeth extraction is a standard dental procedure that can alleviate discomfort, prevent infection, and promote oral health. By preparing correctly and following your dentist's instructions, you can ensure a smooth and successful extraction process. Remember to practice good dental hygiene and call your dentist if you notice any problems.

For more information on wisdom teeth extraction, visit Weston Center for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at our Weston, Florida office. Call (954) 507-6441 to schedule an appointment today.