Wisdom Tooth Surgery - Things to Know

If you find yourself grappling with discomfort or aches at the rear part of your oral cavity, the cause might be your wisdom teeth. These third molars, as they're alternatively known, make their appearance in the late teenage years or early twenties.

Though some individuals never encounter any challenges with their wisdom teeth, there are many who suffer from problems such as crowding, impaction, infections, or misalignment. In these instances, the course of action often leads to wisdom teeth removal surgery, which is crucial to ease the discomfort and ward off any further complications.

In this blog, we will take an in-depth look at the multifaceted nature of wisdom teeth removal surgery and furnish you with invaluable insights to ensure an uncomplicated and successful operation.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common surgical procedure performed to remove one or more wisdom teeth. The surgery is conducted under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and patient preference. If you are planning to have such surgery, you can trust a dentist in Lewiston or Clarkston. They will carefully evaluate your situation and recommend the most suitable approach for your specific need. Now, let’s discuss the vital things you need to know about the surgery.

When is Wisdom Tooth Surgery Needed?

Wisdom tooth surgery, or extraction, is often necessary when the wisdom teeth become impacted or fail to emerge properly. Impacted wisdom teeth are unable to break through the gums fully and can lead to several oral health issues.

Signs and Symptoms of Problematic Wisdom Teeth

Identifying the signs and symptoms of problematic wisdom teeth can help you seek timely dental intervention. Some common indicators include:

1. Pain and Discomfort: Persistent or recurring pain in the back of the mouth, jaw, or nearby areas.
2. Swelling and Redness: Inflammation of the gums surrounding the wisdom teeth, often accompanied by tenderness.
3. Jaw Stiffness: Difficulty in opening the mouth fully or experiencing stiffness in the jaw joint.
4. Headaches: Unexplained headaches that originate from the back of the mouth.
5. Unpleasant Taste or Odor: Foul taste or persistent bad breath due to infection or trapped food particles around the wisdom teeth.

Essential Things to Note Before Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Before undergoing wisdom tooth surgery, proper preparation is crucial for a smooth procedure and recovery. Here are some essential steps to follow:

1. Consultation: Schedule a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the surgery, ask questions, and address any concerns you may have.
2. Pre-operative Examination: Your oral surgeon will perform a thorough examination, including X-rays or other imaging tests, to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth.
3. Medication and Anesthesia: Your surgeon will provide instructions regarding any medications you should avoid before the surgery and discuss the anesthesia options available to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
4. Dietary Restrictions: You may need to follow specific dietary restrictions, such as avoiding solid foods or fasting for a certain period before the surgery.

The Procedure: What to Expect

The specific approach will depend on various factors, including the complexity of the case and your comfort level. During the procedure:

1. Incision: Your surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth and surrounding bone.
2. Tooth Extraction: The tooth may need to be divided into sections for easier removal. The surgeon will gently remove the tooth from the socket.
3. Stitching: In some cases, dissolvable stitches will be placed to aid in the healing process.
4. Gauze Placement: Gauze pads will be applied to control bleeding and promote blood clot formation.

The duration of the procedure varies based on the number of wisdom teeth being removed and their complexity. Your surgeon will provide post-operative instructions for a smooth recovery.

Things Not to Do Before Wisdom Tooth Surgery

Preparing for wisdom tooth surgery involves not only taking the necessary steps but also avoiding certain actions and habits that can potentially interfere with the procedure or hinder the recovery process. Here are some important things to avoid before your wisdom tooth surgery:

1. Don't smoke because smoking can significantly impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications, such as infections and delayed wound healing.
2. Avoid alcohol because it can interfere with the effectiveness of anesthesia and pain medications.
3. Do not eat or drink.
4. Inform your oral surgeon about any medications or supplements you're currently taking and follow their instructions regarding which ones to avoid before the surgery. 
5. Avoid strenuous physical activity.
6. Do not ignore oral hygiene. While you may be advised to avoid brushing and flossing immediately after the surgery, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene leading up to the procedure.
7. Don't ignore pre-operative instructions.
8. Avoid eating hard, chewy, or crunchy foods because they can cause discomfort or increase the risk of injury to the surgical site.

Things Not to Do After Wisdom Tooth Surgery

1. Avoid spitting or rinsing your mouth vigorously within the first 24 hours after surgery.
2. Avoid using a straw.
3. Refrain from touching the surgical area with your fingers, tongue, or any objects. Touching the area can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
4. Avoid engaging in strenuous physical activities, or exercise can increase blood flow and cause bleeding at the surgical site.
5. Do not consume hot foods or beverages: These can increase blood flow to the surgical area and cause discomfort or bleeding.
6. Avoid consuming hard, chewy, or crunchy foods. These foods can irritate or damage the surgical site.
7. Do not smoke or use tobacco products.
8. Avoid drinking alcohol.
9. Do not skip medications or ignore post-operative instructions.
10. Avoid brushing the surgical site.
11. Do not ignore swelling, pain, or excessive bleeding. Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain that is not relieved by prescribed medications, or any other concerning symptoms.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth surgery can provide relief from pain and prevent future complications. If you're experiencing discomfort or suspect problems with your wisdom teeth, you can consult with a qualified dentist in Lewiston or a dentist in Clarkston.