A Guide on Wisdom Teeth: What to Expect
This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about wisdom tooth extraction in Rockhill, from how it is performed to what you should expect afterward!
The reasons why wisdom teeth are removed:
They've been affected. Because wisdom teeth are so far back in your mouth, they may not come in normally. As a result, they can become lodged in your jawbone or gums, resulting in pain, infection, and other dental issues.
They're infected. Wisdom teeth can become infected if the gums around them are not healthy. The infection may spread to the rest of your mouth or even your brain.
They're causing crowding. If there isn't enough room in your mouth for all of your teeth, wisdom teeth may become crooked or at an angle. This can cause pain and make it difficult to brush and floss correctly.
They approach from the wrong side. They may put some pressure on your other teeth.
Before Surgery
You'll meet with the oral surgeon to discuss the procedure. Make sure to bring the following items to this appointment:
X-rays of your mouth.
If you're taking medications, bring a list that includes their generic names and dosages. The doctor will let you know if any should be stopped before surgery or restarted after the procedure is done.
Let them know if there are any allergies in your household or if you have a condition like diabetes or high blood pressure. Your doctor will let you know if any special precautions need to be taken before surgery.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, the oral surgeon may want to take an X-ray of your mouth after removing and healing for several months (to make sure they're really gone!).
The Day of Surgery
You'll arrive at the oral surgeon's office and change into a gown. A nurse will take you to the surgical room to meet the doctor.
Local anesthesia will be injected into your gums around the tooth/teeth being removed. You may feel some pressure or tugging during the injection, but you should not feel any pain.
The oral surgeon will cut your gum and remove the tooth/teeth (or part of them) from underneath it. The surgery usually takes about an hour, depending on how many teeth are being removed and if dental work is involved. A small tube called a drain may be placed in the surgical site to help fluid escape.
After Surgery
You'll awaken in the recovery room, where a nurse will keep an eye on your vital signs. You may have some swelling and pain in your mouth. The nurse will give you instructions for taking care of yourself at home. These instructions usually include:
Rinsing your mouth with warm water several times a day.
Gently bite on a piece of gauze for 30 to 45 minutes after surgery to help control the bleeding.
Avoid hard foods and crunchy snacks for at least 24 hours.
Drinking lots of fluids (especially water) to help flush out your mouth.
Not using a straw for 24 hours after surgery.
Not brushing your teeth or using mouthwashes for 24 to 48 hours (if instructed by the doctor). This can cause more bleeding and swelling in your mouth.
The surgical site will be covered with gauze, and you may have a dressing over it as well. You'll need someone else to drive home from the office.
You may feel a little lightheaded after surgery. If this happens, lie down and drink plenty of fluids until the feeling disappears.
It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to heal quickly and without complications!
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to call the oral surgeon's office.
River District Smiles specializes in wisdom tooth extractions in Rockhill. We know that there are a lot of misconceptions about extraction, and we want you to understand the truth before you make an appointment with us. The truth is that our dentists here at River District Smiles have years of experience removing teeth from children and adults alike! And they do so quickly using modern techniques for minimizing discomfort - including numbing shots to reduce pain during the procedure. Contact us today if you're interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment for your wisdom tooth removal!