Why might I need my wisdom teeth removed?
There are a few reasons why your dentist may recommend removing your wisdom teeth. If they are impacted, meaning they are growing in at an angle and pushing on other teeth, they may need to be removed. They could also be decayed or damaged, causing pain or infection. In some cases, wisdom teeth removal is recommended to prevent problems down the road, such as crowding other teeth. Wisdom teeth stuck underneath the gums will require surgical extraction, while those already erupted into the smile will require simple extraction.
What can I expect during the surgical extraction procedure?
Wisdom tooth removal is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around your mouth. You may also be given sedation if you are anxious or have a lot of work to do. The dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue to access the tooth and remove it. Sometimes, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces to make removal easier. Once the tooth (or teeth) is removed, you may have dissolvable stitches placed to help the area heal.
What is the recovery experience that I can expect?
Most people experience some degree of discomfort and swelling after wisdom tooth removal. Your dentist or oral surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage any pain you may have. They will also give you specific instructions on caring for the area while it heals. This usually includes rinsing with salt water, eating soft foods, and avoiding smoking. Recovery time varies from person to person, but it is usually around 7-10 days.
Are there any risks?
As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with wisdom tooth removal. These include bleeding, infection, and damage to the surrounding teeth. Your dentist or oral surgeon will go over all the risks with you before the procedure to make an informed decision.
Call for an appointment today!
Wisdom teeth removal is a standard procedure that is usually safe and effective. If you have questions or concerns, be sure to talk to Drs. Scott LeSueur, Glenn LeSueur, and Charles Dodaro of Drs of Smiles Gentle Family Dentistry of Mesa, AZ. They can answer any questions you may have and help put your mind at ease! Call 480-834-6991 to request a visit.