Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to extracting wisdom teeth! This article can be helpful if you’ve been enduring pain and discomfort due to your wisdom teeth. We recognize that having any kind of dental work done can be frightening, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll cover all you need to know about wisdom tooth extraction in this in-depth guide, including what they are, when they need to be extracted, and what happens before, during, and after the procedure. We’ll also give you a schedule for getting back to your regular schedule and some crucial recovery advice. Thus, take a seat back, unwind (as much as possible when discussing oral surgery), and allow us to clarify the wisdom tooth extraction procedure.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

The final set of teeth to erupt in our mouths are the wisdom teeth, commonly referred to as third molars. They usually show up between the ages of 17 and 25, which is considered to be the age of wisdom (hence the name!). But rather than offering any valuable insights, these late bloomers almost always cause problems.

In contrast to our other teeth, which are necessary for things like biting and chewing, wisdom teeth have kind of fallen out of style over time. Because their diet included rougher foods that required more grinding power, our ancestors needed these extra molars. But the majority of people no longer need these additional sets of molars, thanks to modern improvements in dental hygiene and food preparation techniques.

When is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Third molars, or wisdom teeth, usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people may not have any problems with their wisdom teeth, but others may have a variety of issues that require extraction.

Too little space in the mouth to accommodate these extra teeth is a common cause of extractions. This may cause the teeth in the vicinity to crowd, misalign, or overlap. In these situations, wisdom tooth extraction is required to avoid future dental issues.

When the wisdom tooth becomes impacted, extraction might also be necessary. When a tooth partially emerges through the gum line, it is said to be impacted.

The Procedure of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

  • Our skilled oral surgeons ensure a comfortable and efficient experience. The specific steps may vary based on your case, but typically involve:
    • Numbing the area with local anesthesia.
    • Making an incision in the gum tissue.
    • Removing bone tissue if necessary to access the tooth.
    • Dividing the tooth into smaller segments to facilitate its extraction.
    • Extracting the tooth fragments.
    • Cleaning the socket and placing stitches (if needed).
  • Recovery: Expect some swelling, soreness, and bleeding for a few days. We’ll provide detailed post-operative instructions on pain management, diet, oral hygiene, and activity restrictions.

Ready to discuss your wisdom teeth and explore your options? Contact Smiles of Virginia Family Dental Center today. We’re committed to providing personalized care and guiding you through every step of your wisdom tooth extraction journey.

FAQs

Q. How much does wisdom tooth extraction cost?

A. Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case, insurance coverage, and chosen sedation. We offer flexible payment options and discuss costs upfront.

Q. How long does the procedure take? 

A. Simple extractions usually take 30-45 minutes, while complex cases might require longer.

Q. How long does it take to recover? 

A. Most people recover within 3-7 days, with complete healing taking up to several weeks.

Q. What can I eat after wisdom tooth extraction? 

A. Stick to soft, cool foods like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first few days. Gradually transition to soft, solid foods as tolerance improves.

Q. What should I avoid after wisdom tooth extraction?

A. Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, using straws, and vigorous activities for at least a week.