Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that appear in the late teens or early twenties and are located at the back of the mouth. While these teeth can be helpful for grinding food in earlier years, they often become problematic once they start erupting. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure that involves removing one or more of these teeth. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about wisdom tooth extraction.
Why get Wisdom Teeth Extracted
Wisdom teeth can cause various problems such as the following:
1. Impacted Teeth: When a wisdom tooth does not fully erupt or grows at an angle, it can become impacted, causing pain, swelling, and infection.
2. Crowding: Wisdom teeth can shift the alignment of other teeth, causing crowding, overlapping, and spacing issues.
3. Decay and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean. As a result, they are prone to decay, gum disease, and infection.
Therefore, it is often recommended to remove wisdom teeth before they cause any problems.
The Extraction Process
The extraction process typically starts with a consultation with the dentist or an oral surgeon. The dentist will examine the teeth and take x-rays to determine if extraction is necessary and plan the procedure.
Prior to the extraction, the dentist will administer anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth and ensure that the patient is comfortable. Depending on the case, the dentist may also provide sedation to help the patient relax or sleep during the procedure.
Once the area is numb, the dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue and remove the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to make it easier to remove. Once the tooth is extracted, the dentist will clean the area and place stitches if necessary.
Post-Extraction Care
After the extraction, the dentist will provide instructions on how to care for the wound and manage any discomfort or swelling. These may include the following:
1. Bite down gently on gauze for 30-45 minutes to help with bleeding.
2. Apply ice packs to your face to reduce swelling.
3. Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or using a straw.
4. Eat soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes, and applesauce.
5. Take pain relievers as prescribed by the dentist.
Recovery time can vary depending on the case, but generally, patients can resume normal activities within a few days and fully recover in one to two weeks.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common and safe procedure that can prevent future dental problems. While it may seem daunting, it is a routine dental procedure that can bring relief and improve dental health. If you think you may need your wisdom teeth extracted, consult with your dentist to discuss the best treatment options for you.
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