What Is the Process of Wisdom Tooth Extraction and Recovery?
For many people in their late teens and early twenties, the third molars also known as wisdom teeth, become an area of concern. The pain and discomfort of these molars is only the beginning, with other issues like impaction and infection likely to occur if they are left unattended. Luckily, a qualified dentist can quickly identify whether you will need a wisdom teeth removal procedure and can do so in a minimally invasive way. If you’re someone who has a wisdom tooth extraction on the horizon, here is what you can expect in terms of process and recovery.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
Dental Consultation
The first step in the third molar removal process is to see your dentist so that they can determine how many you have, and whether or not they are impacted. An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when there is not enough room for the molar to break through the gums because of blockage by other teeth. Impacted molars sit below the gum line and leave you susceptible to bacterial build-up, cavities, and intense pain. Your dentist will recommend surgical removal if this is the case.
Dental Surgery
The process of wisdom teeth removal is straightforward and low risk for those without other health issues. Your dental team will provide you with local and sedation anesthetics, to ensure that there is no discomfort during the removal process. Next, a cut is made into the gums to expose the molar and it’s then divided into sections so it can subsequently be removed by the dentist. After removal of the tooth, the dentist removes any fragments and ensures the site is clean for healing. Finally, the area is packed with gauze to prevent any excessive bleeding and to help with clotting.
Post-Removal Recovery
After your wisdom teeth removal, there are some important steps that you need to follow to ensure that there aren’t any further complications. Because the mouth is full of bacteria, it’s important that these rules are followed to prevent infections. Post-removal recovery steps include:
Monitoring Bleeding, Swelling, and Bruising: It’s common for some bleeding to occur for the first day after removal, but excessive blood is a cause for concern. Bruising and swelling can be mitigated by using NSAIDS and applying ice to your jaw.
Managing Pain: You can manage the pain over the next few days with some common pain relievers or prescription medication if given by your dental professional.
Soft Foods and Lots of Water: As you can appreciate, the sites of extraction will be sensitive and sore over the next few days following wisdom teeth removal. Remember to drink lots of water post-surgery and avoid carbonated, hot, and alcoholic beverages. Do not use a straw for at least one week to allow the clots to fully heal. In terms of foods, the softer the better for the first few days and then you can begin to reintroduce harder solids when tolerable.
Dealing with an impacted molar can certainly be a stressful situation. Contact Markham 7 Dental today to hear more about the procedure so you can help reduce stress, heal more quickly, and get back to flashing that smile!
