Wisdom tooth removal involves removing one or more of the third molars (wisdom teeth) in the back of the mouth. The procedure may require surgery so we can refer you to a specialist.

Wisdom teeth are the last four molars (molars) at the back of the mouth. You're likely to have them removed by your mid-twenties, but some people can get over them sooner or later. If the wisdom teeth are not fully erupted or not straight, they can lead to problems such as pain, swelling, and infection. In that case, wisdom teeth extraction can relieve these symptoms.

Preparing for Wisdom Tooth Extraction:

Before your wisdom tooth is extracted, your dentist will ask you to take an x-ray to see the exact position of the tooth in your gums. This allows the dentist to determine the best way to remove the tooth. Wisdom tooth removal is often a simple procedure that a dentist can perform in a dental office under local anesthesia.

If the tooth seems more challenging to extract, your dentist may need to refer you to a specialist oral surgeon. Specialist intervention is required, and they may provide general anesthesia.

The nurse or surgeon will discuss what will happen before the procedure, including pain. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Being well informed can help you feel more comfortable and agree to continue the process.

What Happens When You Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom tooth extraction procedures vary depending on how complex the extraction is. Upper wisdom teeth are usually easier to remove than lower wisdom teeth. Your dentist will tell you exactly what to expect.

Wisdom teeth extraction at the practice is usually done under local anesthesia. A local anesthetic will completely block the pain in the gums but will keep you awake while the wisdom tooth is removed. Nervous individuals may be given a sedative or local anesthetic as well. This helps you relax.

What to expect after the treatment?

After local anesthesia, it may take several hours for your face and jaw to return to normal. Be extra careful not to poke the part. Discomfort may occur when the anesthesia wears off. However, pain relievers will be provided if needed. You can go home when you are ready.

Your dentist would give you advice on caring for the wound before you go home. You may be given pain relievers and mouthwash to use at home. Antibiotics may also be prescribed if there are signs of infection.

Pain, discomfort and sometimes swelling is normal in the first couple of days but after 3-4 days slowly the symptoms get better as the wound starts to heal, but it takes a week or two to feel normal, depending on the difficulty of extraction.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery:

Pain Relief

It may take several days to feel completely better after wisdom tooth extraction. You may feel some pain or discomfort after the procedure. This usually gets worse in the first few days

You can take over-the-counter pain relievers.

In addition to pain, the jaw may be swollen and stiff for several days. This can make it difficult to open your mouth.

Keep Wounds Clean

Rinsing the mouth cleans wounds and promotes wound healing. Be cautious during the first 24 hours. Washing or rinsing your mouth on the day of extraction can dislodge clots that have formed over the wound and cause bleeding. Gargle with an antibacterial mouthwash or luke warm salt water twice a day from the next day of extraction. This will help reduce swelling and prevent infection. Be very gentle while brushing your teeth.

If the wound starts to bleed after the procedure, you can chew gauze or tissue for 5 minutes to stop it that would be given to you by your dentist.