When should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth are usually removed between ages 18 and 25. The surgery is usually easier for the dentist to perform when the patient is under 25 years of age. This is because after age 25 the teeth have less “soft” space around them as well as the jaw bone behind more dense. The healing and recovery time is generally shorter with younger patients. Remember not everybody needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, it is best to talk to your dentist first.
Will it hurt?
You are fully frozen before the procedure begins. You will feel pressure (pushing and pulling) but no sharp pain. If you do experience pain during the wisdom tooth extraction, immediately inform your dentist as this is not normal. Some patients require extra freezing.
Post-op Instructions
Fold a piece of gauze and place in the back of both sides of your mouth and bite down with firm pressure. You want to change the gauze every 20-30 mins. After a couple of hours you may stop packing gauze if the bleeding has stopped. If the bleeding continues you may try biting on a moist tea bag, this usually does the trick.
You want to avoid any foods which may get stuck in the extraction site. This includes anything with small seeds like strawberry or popcorn. It is best to stick to a soft diet for the first few days. On the second day you may start warm salt water rinses, this will help keep your mouth clean and promote faster healing.
Prevention of swelling is key. As soon as you get home place an ice pack 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. If you wait for the swelling to come and then try ice packs you wont notice a big difference. It is important to try prevent the swelling in the first place. The pain and swelling will usually peak by about 72 hours and then subside.
All patients respond differently. It could take anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks or longer to fully heal. If you notice unusual pain or swelling contact your dentist immediately. If you are a patient at Summerlea Dental, we offer a 24 hour emergency line, simply call the office and press”0″ when you hear the recording.
By Mike April 18, 2012 - 3:17 pm
Great post on wisdom teeth. Dr. Jomha pulled mine out, and was great!
By Alina Jones April 27, 2012 - 4:04 am
Getting wisdom tooth extraction out can help you in getting rid of all the complications associated with it and also helps in maintaining proper oral hygiene. Brushing becomes easy as it has to be done only on areas which are easily approachable. For more detailed info visit.. http://www.identalhub.com/article_do%27s-and-don%27ts-after-tooth-extraction-153.aspx
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