People often get their wisdom teeth removed because these teeth can cause various dental problems, including:
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can cause crowding of other teeth in the mouth, leading to misalignment and bite problems.
- Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth that do not have enough room to grow properly can become impacted, meaning they are stuck in the jawbone or gum tissue. This can lead to pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth and bone.
- Decay and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean properly, making them more prone to decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
- Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth can form cysts or tumors, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth if left untreated.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Removing wisdom teeth can be necessary as part of orthodontic treatment to correct bite problems and create space for other teeth to align properly.
In some cases, people may choose to have their wisdom teeth removed as a preventive measure to avoid potential future problems. Dentists typically monitor the development and growth of wisdom teeth and may recommend removal if they anticipate potential issues.
The procedure for wisdom tooth removal can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and the preferences of the patient and dentist.
However, here are the general steps involved in the process:
- Anesthesia: Before the procedure begins, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, or a neral anesthesia if the patient will be sedated for the procedure.
- Incision: The dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone.
- Tooth Removal: The dentist will use specialized tools to loosen the tooth from its socket and remove it from the jawbone.
- Closure: The dentist will clean the area and may stitch the incision to promote healing.
- Recovery: The patient will be given instructions on how to care for the area after the procedure, including applying ice to reduce swelling, avoiding solid foods and smoking, and taking prescribed pain medication and antibiotics if necessary.
In some cases, the dentist may need to perform a more complex extraction, such as removing a tooth that is impacted or has curved roots. In these cases, the dentist may need to make a larger incision, remove some bone surrounding the tooth, or divide the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal.
The procedure for wisdom tooth removal typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the extraction. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but full healing may take several weeks.
Tips for wisdom tooth removal aftercare
Aftercare is an important part of the wisdom tooth removal process and can help to promote healing and prevent complications.
Here are some tips for wisdom tooth removal aftercare
Rest: It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least the first day after the procedure.
Apply Ice: Applying ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, with a 20-minute break in between, can help to reduce swelling and bruising.
Take Prescribed Medications: Take any prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed by your dentist.
Eat Soft Foods: Eat soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and applesauce for the first few days after the procedure. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that may irritate the surgical site.
Drink Plenty of Water: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but avoid using straws or spitting, as this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss gently, being careful to avoid the surgical site. Rinsing with saltwater can also help to promote healing.
Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Follow any specific instructions provided by your dentist, such as when to return for a follow-up appointment and how to change your gauze.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least the first few days after the procedure, as these can slow down healing and increase the risk of complications.
If you experience any excessive bleeding, severe pain, fever, or other concerning symptoms after the procedure, contact your dentist immediately. With proper aftercare, most people recover from wisdom tooth removal without any complications.
The Beacon Dental Clinic has a strong reputation for placing the Patient at the Centre of our Dental Care, from the first phone call or email to Dental treatment completion. Our technology is focused on seamless dental care delivery, with the varying growth of dental treatment requirements.
We are easily accessible in a modern building with lift access. Our location within close proximity to The Beacon Hospital, to which we have access for a variety of dental procedures, makes Beacon Dental Clinic a premier choice for patients. Our staff are friendly, and welcoming and most importantly, listen and respond to our patients’ needs.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Beacon Dental Clinic, Sandyford.
For further information on Wisom Tooth Dental Treatment, contact us today