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Wisdom Tooth Extraction – Procedure and Recovery
Let’s talk about “Wisdom teeth” —nature’s little prank on growing up, right? …Lol!
Well…the question at hand is — “Why do many people avoid getting their wisdom teeth removed?”
- The mere thought of extraction can induce panic, leading to procrastination and avoidance.
- Financial constraints often deter people from seeking necessary treatment.
- Misconceptions about the procedure and past negative dental experiences can also contribute to this delay.
Today, Emergency Dental Clinic has decided to bust the rumours and myths surrounding wisdom tooth extraction procedure. We’ll discuss everything in detail—whether the procedure is painless or not, recovery tips, the cost of the procedure, and much more.
Are you ready?
So, what actually happens during a wisdom tooth extraction?
Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds. First, you’ll be given some medicine to numb the area, so you won’t feel any pain. Depending on how tricky your wisdom teeth are, you might also be given sedation to help you relax.
Next, your dentist or oral surgeon will carefully cut the gum to expose the tooth. If the tooth is buried in the bone, a little bit of bone might need to be removed. The tooth is then gently loosened and taken out. Sometimes, it might need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal.
To prevent infection, the area is cleaned, and stitches might be placed to help it heal. Finally, a gauze pad is placed to control bleeding and help a blood clot form. And that’s it!
5 Myths About Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Myth | Fact |
Everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. | While many people do require wisdom tooth extraction, it’s not a universal necessity. The decision depends on factors like the position of the teeth, potential for problems, and overall oral health |
Wisdom teeth removal is extremely painful. | Modern dental techniques and anesthesia make the procedure much less painful than it used to be. Discomfort after the procedure is manageable with prescribed pain medication. |
Removing wisdom teeth will affect your eyesight. | There is absolutely no connection between wisdom tooth extraction and vision problems. |
Wisdom teeth must be removed as soon as they start to come in. | Not all wisdom teeth cause issues. It’s often better to wait and see if problems develop before considering extraction. |
Dry socket is a common complication. | While dry socket can occur, it’s actually quite rare. Good oral hygiene after the procedure can significantly reduce the risk. |
Did you know?
Dry socket, a painful complication that can occur after tooth extraction, is often caused by dislodging the blood clot that forms in the socket. To prevent this, avoid smoking, using straws, and spitting vigorously in the days following your procedure.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips: Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
- Take it easy for the first few days.
- Apply ice packs to your face to reduce swelling.
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
- Take prescribed pain relievers as directed.
- Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater after 24 hours to promote healing.
- Sleeping with your head elevated can help reduce swelling.
Don’ts After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
- Avoid intense physical exertion.
- These can irritate the extraction sites.
- These can hinder healing and increase the risk of complications.
- These actions can dislodge the blood clot.
- Sucking can cause a dry socket.
- Avoid disturbing the healing area.
FAQs
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
The cost of wisdom teeth extraction can vary significantly based on factors like the number of teeth involved, the complexity of the procedure, and whether you have dental insurance. To get a precise estimate for your specific case, it’s best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon.
How long does a wisdom tooth extraction take?
The duration of a wisdom tooth extraction procedure depends on several factors, including the position and condition of the teeth. Simple extractions might take around 15 minutes, while more complex cases could require an hour or longer.
How long does wisdom teeth pain last?
Post-extraction discomfort is common, but it usually subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage wisdom teeth pain during recovery. If the pain is severe or persistent, contact your dental professional.
What is a wisdom tooth surgery?
wisdom tooth surgery is essentially the same as a wisdom tooth extraction. It’s a procedure to remove impacted wisdom teeth, which are teeth that haven’t fully erupted.
What to do for emergency wisdom tooth extraction in Toronto?
If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, or bleeding related to a wisdom tooth in Toronto, you likely need emergency wisdom tooth extraction. Contact a local emergency dental clinic immediately for urgent care.