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Wisdom Teeth Extraction
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WISDOM TEETH IN PHOENIX, AZ
Coping with Dental Anxiety
Like any other surgery, wisdom teeth extraction does carry a small risk of complications. These include bleeding, dry socket, and infection. Our team will do everything we can to minimize these risks even further. However, patients should contact our office immediately if they find themselves experiencing any of the following symptoms after their extraction:
Absent or dislodged blood clot at the extraction site after surgery.
High temperature.
Yellow or white discharge from the extraction site.
Persistent pain and swelling.
Throbbing pain in the gum or jaw.
Persistent, heavy bleeding that does not subside over time.
Unpleasant smell or taste in the mouth.
WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL
Wisdom Teeth
"Wisdom teeth" is the colloquial term for the third set of molars that sit in the back of the mouth. They are called such because they come between the more "mature" ages of 17 and 21. The emergence of wisdom teeth can be uncomfortable, even if they are emerging correctly. Wisdom teeth do not always necessitate extraction. On the contrary, properly aligned wisdom teeth may assist in chewing.
However, if there is no adequate space for the wisdom teeth to emerge or if the teeth are coming through in the wrong position, they may become impacted (or trapped in the jaw or under the gums). This may cause cysts, damage to neighboring teeth, gum disease, infection, pain, tooth decay, and tumors. A dentist needs to monitor the patient’s wisdom teeth and determine the best course of action.
Wisdom teeth extraction is available at Happy Valley Dental Studio in Phoenix and the surrounding area. Most patients who need wisdom teeth extraction are in the stages of young adulthood.
WISDOM TEETH EXTRACTION IN PHOENIX, AZ
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Numb the Pain
Wisdom teeth extraction begins with the doctor injecting the patient with a local anesthetic to numb them to the pain of the procedure.
Cut Into the Gum
The doctor will then cut into the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone, making sure to remove any bone blocking access to the tooth root.
Remove Tooth
Depending on how severely impacted the tooth is, the tooth may be divided into sections to be removed little by little.
Clean Wound
The wound may or may not need stitches, and the doctor will pack gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding and to aid in the formation of a blood clot.
WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL PROCEDURE IN PHOENIX, AZ
FAQ's About Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Will I be able to drive myself home after wisdom teeth extraction?
This varies from person to person and the type of anesthesia used. Some patients who were only under a local anesthetic may feel alert enough to drive back home after their procedure, while some may not. However, those who have undergone general anesthesia will need to make arrangements for someone to drive them to and from the operation.
Will I be in pain after wisdom teeth extraction?
You should expect some pain and discomfort following the procedure. However, this is generally manageable through administering ice packs and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. The dentist may prescribe you antibiotics, depending on the severity of your procedure.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth extraction?
You may not have much of an appetite after getting your wisdom teeth extracted. Still, it is essential to stay hydrated and eat well. Since you do not want to dislodge your blood clot or stitches, stick to soft, low- or no-chew foods for the first few days. Refrain from eating anything hot or hard. Do not drink from a straw or slurp too vigorously from a spoon.
How old do I need to be to have my wisdom teeth extracted?
Wisdom teeth can be extracted at any age, depending on the severity and type of impaction. However, complications are less likely in younger adults.
Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from my wisdom teeth extraction?
You should exercise caution to avoid dislodging your blood clot or stitches for the first week. This means avoiding smoking, spitting, drinking from a straw, or anything else that might disrupt your healing.