Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Most people have heard of wisdom teeth. Unfortunately, the reason most people have heard of them is that they frequently need to be extracted in their late teen years. These third molars, located at the very back of the mouth, are the final set of teeth to come in. For some, they slide in without issue. For many others, they crowd, shift, or fail to fully break through the gums. This typically leads to discomfort or complications that often require removal.
What are wisdom teeth, and why do they matter?
Wisdom teeth are remnants of an earlier time when human diets were tougher and required extra chewing power. Today, thanks to modern diets and dental care, these molars are more a nuisance than a necessity. Not everyone develops all four, and it’s not uncommon for some people to never develop them at all.
If wisdom teeth emerge straight, healthy, and in alignment, they may not need removal. But it’s more common for them to erupt at odd angles or stay trapped beneath the gumline. Impacted teeth like this can cause swelling, pain, jaw stiffness, or push against neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment. Wisdom teeth also tend to be hard to clean, raising the risk of decay and infection.
What happens during a wisdom tooth extraction?
Extraction is usually performed in a dental or surgical office, depending on the reason for their extraction. Before the procedure begins, the area is numbed with local anesthesia, or sedation may be used if multiple teeth are being removed at once. Once the area is numb, the dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum if the tooth hasn’t erupted. The tooth is then carefully loosened and lifted out. If it’s large or deeply rooted, it might be removed in smaller sections or require small parts of the bone to be removed.
Stitches are sometimes placed to help the area heal and to control bleeding. You’ll be given gauze to bite down on and instructions for the hours following the procedure.
Aftercare and recovery
The first 24 to 48 hours are the most important for healing. Mild swelling, soreness, and some bleeding are all typical in the early stages. Most people manage the discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief or, if prescribed, medication. Icing the area can help with swelling. Rest is key during the first day or two.
Your dentist or surgeon will recommend post-care guidelines to follow. A soft food diet, like scrambled eggs, smoothies, and broths, helps protect the surgical site(s). Hard or chewy foods should be avoided for several days after healing. Brushing should be gentle and not done near the extraction site for the first day, but keeping the mouth clean is still important. Saltwater rinses can begin after 24 hours to help keep bacteria in check.
Final thoughts
Wisdom tooth extraction may sound daunting, but it’s a straightforward procedure with a quick recovery for most. If your dentist has recommended removal, it’s likely because leaving them in place could lead to complications down the line. With proper aftercare, you’ll be back to normal in no time and possibly with fewer dental issues in your future. Speak to your dentist today to learn more about your unique situation and wisdom teeth.