Wisdom teeth are the third set of permanent teeth that typically begin to emerge in your late teens or early twenties. Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many people undergo to alleviate pain and prevent future oral health issues. These third molars can often become impacted or grow in at awkward angles, causing discomfort and potential damage to surrounding teeth.

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

First, your dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area around your tooth with a local anesthetic. This ensures that you won't feel any pain during the procedure. If necessary, they may also offer sedation options to help you relax. Once you're numb and comfortable, the dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue to access the impacted tooth. In some cases, they may need to remove small sections of bone as well.

Next, they will gently extract the wisdom tooth using specialized tools. Sometimes, this involves dividing the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal. After removing the tooth, your dentist will clean out any debris from the extraction site and stitch up the incisions if necessary. They may also place gauze over the area to control bleeding.

You'll receive instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery and what to expect during recovery. It's important to follow these guidelines closely for optimal healing.

Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Recovery after wisdom teeth removal is an important aspect of the overall process. After the procedure, it's normal to experience some discomfort and swelling in the affected area. However, following a few simple tips can help speed up your recovery.

• First and foremost, ensure that you take any prescribed pain medication as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon. This will help alleviate any post-operative pain and make you more comfortable during the healing process.
• It's also crucial to follow a soft food diet for the first few days after surgery. Avoid chewing on the side where your wisdom teeth were removed to prevent further irritation or injury. Opt for foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup, which are easy to consume without much effort.
• While it may be tempting to brush your teeth immediately after surgery, it's best to wait until your mouth has healed sufficiently. In the meantime, rinse gently with warm salt water several times a day to keep the surgical site clean and promote faster healing.
• To reduce swelling and bruising around your face, apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 20 minutes at a time throughout the first 24 hours after surgery. This will help minimize discomfort and aid in reducing inflammation.
• Remember to get plenty of rest during this time, as sleep plays a vital role in recovering from any surgical procedure. Take things slow for a few days while allowing yourself time to heal properly.

By following these guidelines for recovery after wisdom teeth removal diligently, you can ensure optimal healing and minimize any potential complications along the way.

To find out more about the dental services we offer at Bencaz Family Dentistry, call (225) 665-2417 or schedule a consultation online. You can also visit us at 130 N. Hummell Street, Denham Springs, LA 70726.