If you are considering getting your wisdom tooth removed, it’s important to know what to expect. Although wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure, it’s still a surgical procedure and there are potential risks and complications. In this article, we’ll discuss what to expect during the process, from preparation to recovery.
Preparation
Before removing your wisdom tooth, your dentist will likely take an X-ray of your jaw to better understand the shape and position of your teeth and the surrounding structures. This will help your dentist decide which, if any, of your wisdom teeth should be removed. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help prevent infection. He or she may also recommend taking over–the–counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen prior to the procedure.
The Procedure
The procedure itself typically takes between 30 minutes and an hour. You will be sedated, either orally or intravenously, to reduce anxiety and pain. Your dentist may also use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Your dentist will then make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth. He or she will then use special tools to loosen the tooth from its socket and remove it. The dentist may need to cut the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal. After the tooth is removed, your dentist may place a few stitches in the area to help heal. The stitches will dissolve over time and do not need to be removed.
Recovery
Following the procedure, you may experience swelling, bruising, and pain. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to help manage this. Over–the–counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also be used.
You may also experience some bleeding after the procedure. If this occurs, your dentist may advise you to apply a clean, damp cloth to the area to help stop the bleeding.
Your dentist may also recommend you eat soft foods and avoid drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours after the procedure. This is to help ensure that the area around the extraction site heals properly.
It typically takes three to seven days for the extraction site to heal. While healing, you should avoid any activities that may cause trauma to the area such as vigorous rinsing, brushing, or flossing.
You should also avoid smoking or drinking alcohol during this time, as these activities can interfere with healing.
Final Thoughts
Wisdom tooth extraction is a standard procedure and is typically relatively safe when done by an experienced dentist. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and complications that can occur with any surgical procedure. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you can better prepare for your wisdom tooth removal and ensure a safe and successful outcome.
HPS Dental Care is Accepting New Dental Patients
At HPS Dental Care we focus not only on our dental patients’ teeth but also on their overall health. Call us at 248-652-0024 to schedule your dental appointment. HPS Dental is conveniently located on 24 Mile Road near Shelby Rd. in Shelby Township, MI.
