What Are Wisdom Teeth & Why Are They Removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in the mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25 and can cause a variety of issues if not removed. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that can help prevent pain, infection, and overcrowding of other teeth in the mouth.
What Are the Benefits of Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Getting your wisdom teeth removed can offer a variety of benefits, both in the short and long term. They often cause overcrowding and misalignment in the mouth, leading to discomfort and potential problems with oral health. Removing these teeth can help prevent pain, infection, and other issues that can arise from having them. Additionally, it can also improve your overall dental health by alleviating overcrowding and allowing for better brushing and flossing habits.
What Is The Process of Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Out?
Before the Procedure:
Before the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will typically take x-rays of your mouth to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. They will also ask you about any medical conditions you may have, medications you are taking, and allergies you may have.
You will also be given instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, such as not eating or drinking anything for a certain amount of time before the surgery. You may also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as the effects of the anesthesia may take a few hours to wear off.
The Procedure:
The procedure to remove wisdom teeth usually takes about an hour. You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, as well as sedation if necessary to help you relax. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used, in which case you will be asleep during the procedure. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, your dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. They will then remove any bone that is blocking access to the tooth, and then separate the tooth from the surrounding tissue and extract it. If the tooth is impacted, meaning it is partially or fully covered by gum tissue or bone, your dentist or oral surgeon may need to make a larger incision and remove the surrounding bone to access the tooth.
After the Procedure:
After the procedure, you will be given instructions on how to care for your mouth as it heals. This may include taking pain medication, applying ice packs to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling, and avoiding certain foods that may irritate the extraction site. You should also avoid smoking and using a straw for the first few days after the procedure, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the extraction site and delay healing. Most people are able to return to normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure, although it may take a few weeks for the extraction site to fully heal.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that many people go through. It can be a daunting experience, but understanding the process can help make it easier. By understanding what to expect before and after the surgery, you can ensure that your wisdom teeth removal goes as smoothly and safely as possible.
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