Surgical Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Surgical wisdom teeth extraction is a common oral surgery procedure to remove one or more wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the four permanent molars that typically grow in the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. Many people may not have sufficient space in their mouths for these teeth to grow in properly, leading to various issues, including pain, infection, crowding of other teeth, and potential damage to nearby teeth.
Reasons for Surgical Wisdom Teeth Extraction. Dentists or oral surgeons may recommend surgical wisdom teeth extraction for several reasons, including:
The Surgical Procedure
Surgical wisdom teeth extraction is typically done under local anesthesia, numbing the area around
the tooth while keeping the patient awake. In some cases, a sedative may be used for anxious
patients. The dentist or oral surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and
bone, potentially removing some bone to access the tooth root. Once the tooth is exposed, it is
loosened and removed from the socket. The surgeon may then stitch the gum tissue to aid healing and
place gauze to control bleeding and form a blood clot.
Most individuals recover from surgical wisdom teeth extraction within one to two weeks. Following post-surgery instructions is crucial to prevent complications, including taking prescribed pain medication, avoiding strenuous activity, eating a soft diet, rinsing the mouth with salt water, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. In case of unusual symptoms post-surgery, such as severe pain, fever, or bleeding, contacting the dentist or oral surgeon promptly is essential.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Recovery