The wisdom teeth often appear in late adolescence or the beginning of early adulthood. While some people may never have any problems with their wisdom teeth, others can require dental surgery to remove them. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure done by Scott Young, DDS, and it is recommended for various reasons, including impacted teeth, infection, damage to nearby teeth, and crowding.
Wisdom teeth evaluation
The first step in evaluating your wisdom teeth is to schedule a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. During this evaluation, your dentist will examine your mouth and take x-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and if they are causing any problems. While not all people will need to remove their wisdom teeth, those who do can benefit greatly from the procedure.
Below are the benefits of wisdom teeth removal through oral surgery
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Alleviate pain: Wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort and pain, especially if impacted. By removing these teeth through oral surgery, you can reduce or eliminate the pain associated with them.
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Prevent infection: When wisdom teeth are impacted or partially emerge, they can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infection. Removing these teeth can prevent infections from developing and spreading to other mouth areas.
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Preserve overall dental health: Wisdom teeth that are not properly aligned or emerge at an angle can cause damage to nearby teeth, leading to decay, misalignment, or even tooth loss. By removing these problematic teeth, you can preserve the overall health of your mouth.
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Improve orthodontic treatment: Removing wisdom teeth can help prevent overcrowding and misalignment if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Making space in the mouth allows your teeth to shift into their correct positions more easily.
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Reduce the risk of cysts and tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts or tumors. By removing these teeth, you can reduce the risk of these complications.
After undergoing wisdom teeth removal, properly caring for your mouth is vital to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. Here are some tips for post-operative care:
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Rest and limit physical activity: It is advisable to rest and avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 24 hours after the procedure to allow your body to heal.
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Apply ice: To reduce swelling and pain, apply an ice pack to your cheeks for 15-20 minutes several times daily.
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Follow prescription drug instructions: Your dentist may recommend painkillers or antibiotics to treat infection-causing discomfort. Make sure to take them exactly as directed.
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Eat soft foods: Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes for the first few days after surgery.
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Avoid straws: Sucking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot in the socket, which can cause a painful dry socket. Avoid using straws for at least a week after surgery.
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Keep your mouth clean: Rinse your mouth gently with salt water or an antiseptic mouthwash to keep the area clean and prevent infection. Be gentle when brushing and flossing around the surgical site.
Consult your dentist or oral surgeon to determine if wisdom teeth removal suits you.
