The Ultimate Guide to Wisdom Teeth Removal: What You Need to Know
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop. Typically, they start to grow in during the late teenage years or early twenties. For some people, wisdom teeth can cause discomfort, pain, and dental problems. In such cases, wisdom teeth removal is recommended.
If you’re someone who’s considering wisdom teeth removal, you may have several questions about the procedure. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal, including the reasons for the procedure, how it’s done, what to expect during recovery, and more.
Why is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
In most cases, wisdom teeth removal is done due to dental problems caused by them. Some of the reasons include:
1. Crowding: When wisdom teeth come in, they can create crowding in the mouth, pushing other teeth out of alignment.
2. Impacted teeth: Sometimes, wisdom teeth don’t fully emerge from the gum line, leading to impaction. Impacted teeth can cause pain, inflammation, and infection.
3. Decay: Wisdom teeth are prone to decay as they’re positioned at the back of the mouth where it’s hard to clean thoroughly.
4. Gum disease: Wisdom teeth can also increase the risk of gum disease and inflammation in the surrounding area.
How is Wisdom Teeth Removal Done?
Before the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will take an x-ray of your mouth to determine the position of your wisdom teeth. They’ll also discuss the anesthesia options with you.
There are two common types of anesthesia used during wisdom teeth removal:
1. Local anesthesia: This involves numbing the area around the wisdom teeth to be removed.
2. General anesthesia: This puts you to sleep during the procedure.
Once you’re comfortable, your dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. If necessary, they’ll remove any bone blocking access to the tooth. Then, they’ll divide the tooth into sections to make it easier to remove. Finally, the area will be cleaned, and the incision closed.
What Can You Expect During the Recovery Period?
After your wisdom teeth are removed, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding for a few days. It’s essential to follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications. Some of the things you should do after wisdom teeth removal include:
1. Ice the area for 20-minute intervals to reduce swelling.
2. Eat soft foods and drink plenty of water.
3. Avoid straws as sucking can dislodge the blood clot.
4. Avoid smoking as it can slow down the healing process.
5. Follow proper oral hygiene practices, including gentle brushing and rinsing with salt water.
In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that can improve your oral health and alleviate discomfort. If you’re experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with a dentist or oral surgeon. By understanding what to expect during the procedure and recovery, you can make preparations for the best experience possible.
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