Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What You Need to Know

Wisdom teeth removal involves your dentist extracting the four permanent adult teeth at the back of your mouth. Wisdom teeth often erupt between seventeen and twenty years. Most people have all four wisdom teeth, while others have some, and certain people do not. Wisdom teeth removal is essential if your wisdom teeth do not develop normally, causing pain or infection. Dr. Samantha Ben-Ezra Washington, can recommend the treatment if your wisdom teeth trap food and debris, develop a cyst, or cause dental pain. Wisdom teeth removal may also be necessary if you develop gum disease around the molars or have cavities in partially erupted wisdom teeth.

What should you expect before wisdom teeth extraction?

Before wisdom teeth extraction, you will have an appointment with your dentist for an oral evaluation. Your dentist will do a dental X-ray for a detailed view of your wisdom teeth to determine the exact issue. This evaluation helps your dentist determine whether your extraction will involve surgery. Ensure you tell your provider about any medications or supplements you are taking. The dentist will also talk to you about the treatment and answer any questions. For trusted care and guidance, visiting a South Tulsa dental clinic can make the entire process smoother and more comfortable.

What happens during wisdom teeth removal?

If your treatment involves simple extraction, your dentist will numb the affected teeth and surrounding tissue. You may have sedation if you are anxious to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. Your dentist will use special tools to loosen the affected teeth and pull them from their sockets, one at a time.

If your wisdom teeth require surgery, your surgeon will administer local anesthesia and give a sedative to keep you comfortable throughout the treatment. If your teeth are impacted, your surgeon will incise your gum or bone to allow adequate access to extract them. The surgeon will loosen the teeth, extract them using small surgical tools, clean the region, and stitch it. In most patients, stitches fall out independently after a few days.

What happens after wisdom teeth removal?

Ensure you have someone to drive you home after wisdom teeth removal. You will have gauze in your teeth sockets, which you often use for about forty-eight hours after teeth removal. Ensure you replace them when they become saturated. After the procedure, you will experience mild pain, swelling, and bleeding, but your provider will prescribe medications to manage the effects. Avoid vigorous swishing for the first days as it can dislodge blood clots, leading to dry sockets. Also, avoid strenuous duties for about forty-eight to seventy-two hours. Rest as much as possible for the first few days, especially if you had surgical wisdom teeth removal.

What are the potential risks or complications of wisdom teeth removal?

Although rare, you may experience complications after wisdom teeth removal. Common risks include damage to other oral structures such as your jawbone, nerves, sinuses, or nearby teeth. The treated area may also develop an infection or experience dry sockets.

Wisdom teeth removal is the extraction of the permanent adult molars at the back of your mouth. The treatment is beneficial if your wisdom teeth cause dental pain, gum disease, or cavities. Schedule an appointment at SPA Dental for wisdom teeth removal to minimize the risk of further oral issues.