Wisdom Teeth

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your jaw, it may be time to have your wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth are the adult teeth that grow in the back corners on the top and bottom of your mouth.

Often, when a person’s wisdom teeth start to grow in, they become impacted, meaning that there is not enough room for them, and they can grow irregularly, causing pain. If you have an impacted wisdom tooth and experience pain or discomfort, it is best that you have your wisdom teeth removed.

To prepare for the surgery, ask your oral surgeon about your anesthesia options, how complicated they expect it to be, and how long it will take to recover. You may need someone to drive you home afterwards.

The extraction procedure is simple and nothing to be afraid of. First, your oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth and bone. They will extract the bone blocking the root, and then remove the tooth, clean the area, and stitch the area closed if necessary. Then they will place gauze pads over the area to help control bleeding.

After surgery, you will likely experience pain (which can be helped with over-the-counter medication or a prescription medication prescribed by your oral surgeon) and bleeding (which is normal—just be sure to replace the gauze regularly). You should eat only soft foods for 24 hours afterwards. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, soda, caffeinated and hot beverages. Don’t use a straw, because it can cause dry socket.

For more information on wisdom teeth removal, come visit us at Midland Dental.