Children develop most of their permanent teeth by the time they reach adolescence, but a third set of molars emerges around adulthood. These third molars usually appear when an individual is between the ages of 17 and 25 and are called wisdom teeth.

When wisdom teeth come in normally with no complications, they pose no problems and can be left as they are. However, many Americans experience issues that call for wisdom tooth extraction. It’s a good idea for anyone considering wisdom teeth removal to talk to their local dentist in Mobile, AL for a proper diagnosis. Read on to learn more about wisdom tooth removal and recovery.

Common problems associated with wisdom teeth

Here are some reasons a dentist may advise wisdom tooth extraction.

  • Impaction: When a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully emerge and remains trapped in the jawbone or gums, this is known as impaction. Impaction is often painful and may lead to infection.
  • Crowding: When someone’s jaw is too small to accommodate the new teeth, the emerging molars may push other teeth out of alignment.
  • Decay and gum disease: Since an individual’s wisdom teeth are at the back of their mouth, they can be harder to clean. This can make them more susceptible to cavities and gum disease.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Process

Wisdom teeth extractions are common and not always a complex surgical procedure. If the tooth has fully emerged through the gums, a dentist can remove it with forceps.

With impacted teeth, surgical removal is necessary. However, the procedure helps prevent future dental problems.

Consultation

The process begins with a consultation. The dentist examines the patient’s teeth and may get X-rays to better understand the problem. Before an extraction, dentists may request a patient’s medical history. They’ll also discuss anesthesia options. Unless an emergency extraction or surgery is required, the dentist will set a date for the surgery and instruct patients on fasting and other preparations.

Extraction process

To ensure a painless procedure, patients receive local or general anesthesia based on the procedure. Local anesthesia is more common, but general anesthesia may be used to help patients sleep through the surgery.

The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gums to access the tooth. The incision may be stitched up to promote healing. Sometimes, these stitches may dissolve on their own after a few days.

Recovering from Wisdom Tooth Removal

Dentists usually provide detailed care instructions after surgery. They may suggest a diet of soft foods, a comfortable position to sleep, and medication to help manage the pain.

  • Rest: It’s best to take it easy for a few days immediately after dental surgery. It may help to sleep with one’s head elevated.
  • Ice packs: Ice packs can soothe pain and bring down any swelling.
  • Soft foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and scrambled eggs. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site.
  • Oral hygiene: Patients should avoid brushing the extraction site and brush gently and carefully.
  • Lifestyle: Heavy exercise and smoking may cause the blood clot in the socket to burst and result in dry sockets. It’s advisable to avoid these activities for a few days.