All About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Introduction

Wisdom teeth are the four molars that grow in at the back of your mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They are often impacted, meaning that they don’t have enough room to grow in properly. This can lead to pain, swelling, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.

Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure. It is usually done to prevent or treat problems caused by impacted wisdom teeth. The procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon or dentist. dentist las vegas

Why do people need wisdom teeth removed?

There are a few reasons why people may need to have their wisdom teeth removed:

• Impaction: As mentioned above, wisdom teeth are often impacted, meaning that they don’t have enough room to grow in properly. This can lead to pain, swelling, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.
• Crowding: Wisdom teeth can cause crowding in the mouth, which can lead to crooked teeth and other dental problems.
• Infection: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, which can make them more prone to infection.
• Cyst formation: A cyst can form around an impacted wisdom tooth, which can damage the jawbone and nearby teeth.
• Tumors: Rarely, tumors can develop in wisdom teeth.

What to expect during wisdom teeth removal

Wisdom teeth removal is usually done under local anesthesia, which numbs the mouth. However, general anesthesia may be used for more complex cases.

The oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the wisdom tooth. If the tooth is impacted, the surgeon may need to remove some bone to reach it. Once the tooth is exposed, the surgeon will use forceps to remove it.

After the tooth is removed, the surgeon will clean the area and stitch the gum tissue closed. The stitches will usually dissolve on their own within a week or two.

Recovery from wisdom teeth removal

Most people experience some pain and swelling after wisdom teeth removal. The pain is usually mild and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers. The swelling usually peaks within 2-3 days and subsides within a week or two.

It is important to follow your oral surgeon’s instructions carefully after surgery. This will help to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some tips:

• Eat soft foods for the first few days after surgery. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the tooth was removed.
• Apply an ice pack to your face for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help to reduce swelling.
• Gently rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day. This will help to keep the area clean and prevent infection.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Take any medications that your oral surgeon prescribes.

Risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal

Wisdom teeth removal is a safe procedure, but there are some risks and complications that can occur. These include:

• Dry socket: This is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot in the socket where the tooth was removed dissolves too quickly.
• Infection: Infection can occur at the site of the surgery.
• Nerve damage: There is a small risk of damaging the nerves in the jaw during surgery. This can lead to numbness or tingling in the lips, chin, or tongue.
• Damage to nearby teeth: There is also a small risk of damaging the teeth next to the wisdom tooth during surgery.

If you are considering having your wisdom teeth removed, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon. They can assess your individual situation and help you to make the best decision for your oral health.

Additional tips for a speedy recovery

Here are some additional tips to help you recover quickly from wisdom teeth removal:

• Elevate your head when sleeping. This will help to reduce swelling.
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. These substances can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
• Get regular exercise, but avoid strenuous activity for at least a week after surgery.
• Brush your teeth and tongue gently, avoiding the surgery site.

If you have any concerns about your recovery, be sure to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure that is usually safe and effective. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and complications involved. If you are considering having your wisdom teeth removed, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon to assess your individual situation and make the best decision for your oral health.