Things To Know Before and After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Last updated on November 3rd, 2022
Teeth come out through the gums but the last teeth to come out are the wisdom teeth, which appear at 17 and 21 years o. But the age may vary.
Normally, wisdom teeth have no problem staying in the mouth. But, if a tooth cannot come out or does so partially, it is considered an impacted tooth. While some people experience no symptoms, I went through an ordeal that begins with a so-hard pain that I have no option but to look for wisdom teeth removal near me.
To avoid complications, the piece or pieces of teeth that are causing problems should be removed, according to Kumra Orthodontics Washington DC. It takes some serious work from the best dentists like the ones in Wilmot Family Dentistry to really fix things up. Since they are not in a good position, they could push other pieces or form cysts. When they are in a diagonal position, the molars emerge partially and bacteria and infections are likely to develop on the gums.
A lack of space in the oral cavity diagnosis is the first step before getting wisdom teeth out. This way, specialists prevent teeth straightening or other orthodontic treatments.
The surgery requires a specialist that sees your medical history. It is essential to let the professional know details such as heart disease, diabetes, blood problems, other surgeries, or if you have any allergies. He will also clarify the wisdom teeth removal cost.
Added to the wisdom tooth extraction cost, X-rays are needed to see the exact position of the teeth. Depending on the person’s health, other tests may be required to make sure there is no issue with blood pressure or high sugar levels.
After analyzing the radiography and scheduling the surgery, it is recommended to take an antibiotic as a prophylactic measure. This is also necessary after the process.
The MedlinePlus portal explains that having wisdom teeth removed before age 20 is often less complicated than at an older age. The reason is that at this age the roots are not fully developed, while at an older age the roots become longer and curved. Plus, the bone is also much stiffer.
After surgery
The first hours are essential to avoid complications. Therefore, it is necessary to follow the doctor’s instructions.
When the wisdom tooth is removed, the area or socket is filled with a blood clot. This clot must be taken care of because it produces the new bone that replaces the space where the roots of the extracted tooth were. If the clot is lost, it will bring serious and painful consequences.
Experts explain that using gauze is vital to control the bleeding in the area that was worked on. Bleeding may last at least 45 minutes to 1 hour after extraction. Use sterile gauze if bleeding occurs.
Cold is recommended to control this swelling during the first eight hours. Use an ice pack, but make sure to protect the skin with oil or facial cream first.
It is important not to spit or use mouth rinses during the first 24 hours, otherwise, the clot will become dislodged.
The diet must be soft, liquid, and cold. During this process, avoid consuming dairy food because it favors the entry of microorganisms. Wait for the anesthesia to pass to have your meals properly.
3 to 4 days later
After 3 or 4 days, it is best to eat the food at a cold or room temperature. Hot meals could burst the clot.
Eat everything cold or at room temperature. Jellies, compotes, soups, fruit juices, and ice cream are excellent options. Avoid citrus and alcoholic beverages. Do not smoke or use straws to ingest drinks.
The day after the extraction, wash your mouth several times with salt and bicarbonate in a glass of warm water. Do it softly and brush your teeth carefully not to hurt the area.
Rest for the first three days. If you have doubts about your recovery, consult your doctor. Saltwater and bicarbonate rinses should be done gently and only 24 hours after the operation.
The use of analgesics for pain and antibiotics is also recommended from day one. Follow the times and take them with your meals.
At this stage, do not put ice on your face because it closes the arteries and it will not let the medicine work, making it difficult for you to recover. Your doctors may prescribe other meds.
Non-stop bleeding and fever are considered emergency wisdom tooth removal. Call your doctor immediately if this happens to you.
Go back to your normal diet slowly after 4 days.
Reasons for wisdom teeth removal
The first reasons are pain and infection. In this situation, antibiotics and wisdom teeth removal are the best alternatives.
When the wisdom teeth are totally covered by the gum, they can generate infection or a cyst and can damage the roots of other teeth.
Oftentimes, they erupt partially generating episodes of infections and periodontal problems due to the accumulation of bacteria. Whether they are included or partially erupted, they can cause pain and infection.
The highest percentage of extractions is performed in young patients. Wisdom teeth removal is more advisable in patients who are younger (before the root apex closes), as problems with the dental nerve are minimized.
Another frequent situation with wisdom teeth is when patients want to have orthodontics. If there is no pain, infection, or cavity, the extraction may not be called for.
When to resort to wisdom teeth removal
Besides studying the panoramic, lateral skull teleradiography, cephalometry, and photographic records, the orthodontist assesses the situation of the wisdom teeth. This is the criteria he considers:
- Dental prevention due to the position of the third molar that may be impacting the anterior molar.
- Lack of space for the third morals
- Periodontal or dental problems
- The wisdom tooth hinders biomechanics in distalization orthodontic treatment
Occasionally, wisdom teeth help apply orthodontic biomechanics because they act as mini-screws. These teeth can be pulled out following biomechanics.
A global dentofacial diagnosis is always key to achieving the best orthodontic treatment. Prior to wisdom teeth removal, ensure you find a good dental clinic that offers interdisciplinary treatment with specialists in each field to address all needs with criteria of clinical rigor. The wisdom tooth extraction price can range from $250 to $1100 per tooth if general anesthesia is used.
- About the Author
Ernesto Luis is a Venezuelan writer with 7 years of experience in different niches, such as lifestyle, fashion, health, culture, and anime. He loves reading about multiple topics and is always researching to inform readers about home and health trends.
My wisdom tooth has been killing me and I am unable to move my jaw. I’m honestly scared to have it removed but it’s helpful to know that a specialist will consider it when it hinders in giving space for your third molar. I really hope to find a good private dentist that can make me comfortable throughout the extraction.