Wisdom Teeth Extractions: What to Expect

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop for most people. These teeth often emerge between the ages of 16 and 25, and they don't always come out easily or without issues. If your wisdom teeth are causing problems or likely to cause problems, your dentist might recommend getting them extracted.

‍Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?

There are a few common reasons for wisdom teeth extractions:

• Impaction: Your wisdom teeth may be impacted if they become stuck below the gumline or don't have enough room to emerge properly. This can cause pain, inflammation, and an increased risk of infection.
• Overcrowding: Even if wisdom teeth do erupt, they can push other teeth out of alignment. This can make daily oral hygiene and even eating difficult.
• Damage to nearby teeth: Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can damage nearby teeth, increasing the risk of decay and other dental problems.
• Cysts or tumors: Cysts or other growths can sometimes develop around impacted wisdom teeth.

What happens during a wisdom tooth extraction?

The wisdom tooth extraction procedure generally includes the following steps:

1. X-rays: Your dentist or oral surgeon will take X-rays of your mouth to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and plan the extraction.
2. Anesthesia: You'll be given anesthesia to prevent pain during the procedure. The type of anesthesia can vary:some text
   1. Local anesthesia numbs the extraction sites.
   2. IV sedation makes you sleep during the procedure.

3. Incisions & tooth removal: If your wisdom teeth haven't erupted, some gum tissue and possibly even bone may need to be removed for successful extraction. Your dentist or surgeon may also break the tooth into smaller pieces if it's difficult to remove whole.
4. Stitches and gauze: Some extractions require stitches to close the incisions and help the area heal properly. Your dentist will also place gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding.

Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction

You can expect some pain, swelling, and bleeding for a few days after a wisdom tooth extraction. Here's what helps during recovery:

• Pain relief: Take over-the-counteror prescribed pain medication as directed.
• Ice packs: Apply ice packs to your face to reduce swelling.
• Soft foods: Eat soft foods such as soup, yogurt, applesauce, and mashed bananas for the first few days. Avoid crunchy, hard, or spicy foods.
• Saltwater rinses: Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to keep the area clean.
• Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your body heal.

When to see your dentist

Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience any of the following symptoms after your wisdom tooth extraction:

• Excessive bleeding
• Increased pain or swelling
• Fever
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Pus or foul-smelling discharge from the extraction site

Wisdom teeth extractions: Not always necessary, but often beneficial

While not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, it's a common procedure that can prevent numerous future dental problems. If your dentist recommends wisdom tooth extraction, discuss the reasons for the recommendation, the procedure itself, and recovery with them to make an informed decision.