There are notable benefits to wisdom teeth extraction, and understanding when it is recommended and what to expect throughout the treatment and aftercare process can help you ease any anxieties that you have ahead of your scheduled consultation or wisdom tooth extraction procedure.
Wisdom tooth extraction FAQs
The most common questions patients have about wisdom tooth extractions deal with the purpose of the procedure, the risks involved with not removing wisdom teeth, and what the procedure and aftercare process involve. This review answers these related questions and more to provide you with the information you need before your next dental visit.
Why do dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth?
Wisdom tooth extraction can either be necessary or elective to prevent concerns in the future. Often, dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth to prevent or to deal with:
- Tooth pain
- Gum complications
- Oral infections
- Overcrowding
- Impacted teeth
Wisdom teeth that grow sideways or emerge when there is not enough space in the jaw can damage other teeth and the gums. It can also make orthodontic treatment more challenging, which is why dentists typically recommend wisdom tooth extraction before orthodontic care.
What are the risks of not removing wisdom teeth?
As mentioned, wisdom teeth that do not emerge properly may increase the risk of gum disease, oral infections, and teeth damage. They may also make it difficult during orthodontic care or make alignment issues worse. Wisdom teeth are also vulnerable to teeth decay as they are harder to reach while brushing and flossing.
Is the wisdom teeth removal procedure painful?
The wisdom teeth procedure does not typically cause discomfort during the procedure itself as the dentist can use a numbing agent and sedation. However, there may be some discomfort following the procedure once the sedation wears off. The pain should not be severe and can be managed with good oral hygiene, rest, and pain relief medication.
How long does it take to recover after wisdom tooth extraction?
It can take several days to more than a week to recover after wisdom tooth extraction. It is important to reduce the risk of irritating the affected area by keeping the mouth clean and eating a soft diet. It is also important to take a few days off from sports and other physical activities as well.
What foods are good to eat during the recovery period?
It is important to eat a soft diet during recovery. This can include scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and yogurt. Ice cream that is low in sugar and milkshakes are acceptable as well, but it is important to limit the consumption of food that is hot (i.e. soup). It is helpful to drink water throughout the day as well as to wash away bacteria and food.
Learn more about wisdom tooth extract from our dental team
Here at our dental practice, we assist our patients through the wisdom tooth extraction experience, ensuring they have their questions answered and feel comfortable and confident throughout the process. Contact us today if your wisdom teeth are causing problems or if you would like to learn more about the benefits of having them removed before problems develop.
