Why Do People Get Their Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
There are several reasons to have wisdom teeth extracted, but the two most common reasons are pain and crowding.
With pain, the problem stems from the wisdom teeth getting trapped (and impacted) in the jaw or gums. The pain can be so intense that some patients will struggle to eat or sleep.
With crowding, there’s simply a lack of space in the mouth. The wisdom teeth are the final teeth to “come in”, appearing in most people between the ages of 17 and 21. As these late bloomers arrive, they can push the other teeth in the mouth out of place, changing everything from the appearance of your smile to how you chew.
How Long Will Wisdom Tooth Extraction Last?
Generally speaking, the extraction process should last about an hour.
What Should I Expect When Getting My Wisdom Teeth Pulled?
When you arrive at the dentist’s office, the staff will make sure you’re comfortable and as relaxed as possible. Your dentist will talk you through the procedure one last time, before providing you with both a sedative and a local anesthetic to ensure no pain is felt.
Once you’re sedated, the dentist will perform the removal process by making an incision in your gum line to access the wisdom teeth, removing the teeth, cleaning and sterilizing the cavity (the area the teeth used to occupy), and suturing (stitching) the incision in your gum line closed.
Thanks to the sedative medication you’re provided, you should feel little to no pain, and experience the procedure in a semi-conscious state where you feel like you’re “dreaming.”
Should I Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Not everyone will need their wisdom teeth removed. If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing any pain, and if they’re not crowding the other teeth in your mouth, removal may not be necessary. However, the only way to be sure whether or not you need your wisdom teeth removed is to talk to a dentist at Dean Dental Solutions.
How Long Will it Take to Recover From Having My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Recovery varies on a case-by-case basis. For most people, recovery only takes a few days, and patients are back to work (or school) in less than a week.
Minor swelling, bleeding, and pain will come and go throughout the recovery process, but can be managed through medication. Ice packs may also be helpful in alleviating swelling and pain.
In the days immediately following your wisdom teeth extraction, it’s important to avoid all foods that require chewing. Instead, eat soft, liquid-based foods like soup, smoothies, and ice cream.
What Type of Sedation Is Used for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Before getting your wisdom teeth removed, you’ll be given a heavy sedative as well as a local anesthetic to keep you relaxed and pain free during the procedure. For most patients, the sedative is so effective that the extraction procedure feels like a light sleep or dream.
