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Wisdom Tooth Removal: What You Should Expect

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When your dentist says it’s time to extract your wisdom teeth, he may refer you to an oral surgeon who will perform the procedure. But what are the reasons for taking them out?

Wisdom teeth are an additional set of molars that could be impacted and grow very far back in your mouth, disrupting your normal tooth arrangement. Wisdom teeth may also be trapped in your gums or jawbone, and that can seriously hurt. They can press against other teeth and also cause pain, or they may simply be too big for your mouth to accommodate (what with all your other teeth). Another reason is that they can increase the likelihood of cavities or gum disease since they are usually difficult to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss. Learn more from dentist Kennewick WA.

Before Surgery

Before performing the procedure, your oral surgeon will explain the process to you. During this first consultation, be sure to mention all health issues you have, if any, as well as any drugs you take on a regular basis. Plan time off from work or school for your surgery, including days of rest after the procedure. Set up child care or pet care as needed, and arrange a ride home after the extraction.

During Surgery

The usual time it takes to remove wisdom teeth is around 45 minutes or less. Your surgeon will probably make you choose between local anesthesia, which numbs your mouth; IV sedation, which numbs your mouth and makes you sleepy; and general anesthesia, which will put you to sleep all throughout the procedure. To get the tooth out, your surgeon may cut gum or bone as well before stitching up the wounds for quicker healing (it typically takes a few days for the stitches to dissolve). He may use gauze pads as well for soaking up blood as he performs the procedure.

After Surgery

People respond to anesthesia in different ways. If you received local anesthesia, it’s likely that your surgeon will let you drive yourself home. You may even be able to resume your daily routine right away. Obviously, if you had general anesthesia or IV sedation, you’ll want someone else to take you home.

You may or may not also feel pain following surgery, but there is likely to be swelling and a little discomfort for the next three or so days. Sometimes, healing can take a full week. Lastly, do as your dentist says, whether he wants you to use an ice pack to relieve swelling, apply moist heat to relieve a sore jaw, or rinse your mouth very gently. For more information, visit this site.