Wisdom teeth extraction may sound scary, but it is an important part of keeping your teeth healthy. Wisdom teeth often come in crooked, fail to erupt above the gumline, or crowd your other teeth which makes removal necessary for most people. Nearly 85% of people will require wisdom teeth extraction which makes this a very common procedure and not one to be feared.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, make their appearance between the ages of 17 and 25. Located in the very back of your mouth, they are your last permanent teeth to grow in. It is generally accepted that humans once required these teeth in order to grind down harder foods. As our diets have changed and food is less of a battle, these teeth no longer serve a purpose.
What to Expect When You Remove Wisdom Teeth
Consultation
The process of wisdom teeth extraction typically commences with a thorough consultation and examination by your dentist. During this initial assessment, your dentist will visually inspect your teeth and oral structures for any signs of complications or impaction. Additionally, a panoramic x-rays may be taken to obtain a comprehensive view of your wisdom teeth, enabling your dentist to assess their position, alignment, and potential impact on surrounding teeth and structures.
Procedure
On the day of your surgery, you will either take an oral sedative or be given nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” to dull pain during the procedure. If you are given an oral sedative, you will need someone to drive you to and from the appointment.
The surgery itself will only last around 40 to 90 minutes. However, you should not plan to return to work or school on the same day of your wisdom teeth extraction since rest is required for healing to begin.
Post-Procedure
You can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after the procedure. While this can last for up to two weeks, However, many individuals notice a considerable improvement in their symptoms within two to three days. Your dentist will also prescribe pain medication tailored to your needs, ensuring you can manage any wisdom teeth extraction post-operative pain effectively and facilitate a smoother recovery process.
Schedule your Wisdom Teeth Extraction Consultation
At Marketplace Dentistry, we understand dental procedures like wisdom teeth extraction, or any other tooth extraction can cause discomfort and anxiety.
We will work with you to make your treatment as easy and comfortable as possible. Call today to learn about what we can do for your dental health.
