Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt in an adult’s mouth. They are believed to have helped with early human diets but have evolved into something that’s no longer necessary. The procedure consists of removing one or more wisdom teeth. Many patients are born with four, two on the upper gum line and two on the bottom.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth may not have room to grow and cause dental issues such as a crowded smile and impacted teeth. This can give way to additional pain and infection, so a dentist may recommend their removal. The subsequent surgery is done carefully by a dentist or oral surgeon to prevent issues and promote the patient’s oral health.
Preparing For Surgery
Depending on your case, your wisdom teeth extractions in Aspen will be done by your dentist at their dental office. If the teeth are deeply impacted, or further surgery is needed, the dentist might refer you to an oral surgeon.
Before surgery, your dentist will determine how many wisdom teeth will be removed and how they will be removed. Once you arrive, they will prepare the area in your mouth at the dental clinic by providing you with a local anesthetic or using a sedation method to help you relax during the procedure.
Types of Sedation Available
Your Aspen dentist or oral surgeon may suggest the use of sedation if a patient is anxious about the procedure or would prefer a stronger form of sedation than just local anesthesia. The types of sedation dentists may offer include:
1. Local anesthesia
This is applied directly into the gums and numbs the area where the procedure will be performed. Your dentist will inject the numbing substance around the placement of your wisdom teeth. With this substance, patients will remain fully conscious and may feel some pressure in the location of their teeth but will not feel pain.
2. Sedation anesthesia
This type of sedation will minimize a patient’s consciousness during surgery and help them further relax. Patients won’t feel pain or any discomfort. Additionally, they will receive local anesthesia to ensure the area of their gums is completely numb.
3. General anesthesia
In some situations, a patient may be offered general anesthesia. Patients will be given this through an IV or inhalation. They will not remain conscious, and staff will monitor their vitals during the treatment to ensure everything is running properly. With this type of sedation, patients will also not feel any pain.
After the Procedure
As you heal from your wisdom teeth extraction, you may experience a few common symptoms, which include:
1. Bleeding and Pain
Some bleeding from the location of surgery is common. Your dentist will recommend that you avoid spitting and ask you to replace the gauze they have put in your mouth; this covers the site throughout the healing process. Some discomfort is also common as your mouth will no longer be under anesthesia. Your dentist may prescribe medication to manage the discomfort if necessary. If you experience excessive bleeding or pain, and it won’t cease, contact a dentist near you.
2. Rest
After surgery, ensure you rest for the remainder of the day and only resume your normal activities the day after. Avoid demanding activities that may affect your healing process for at least one week.
3. Stay Hydrated
During healing, drink lots of water. Avoid any other beverages for at least twenty-four hours. Avoid drinking with a straw for at least one week after surgery to avoid dislodging any blood clot from the tooth socket.
4. Eat Soft Foods.
Avoid eating foods that can irritate your gums or hurt the healing process of your tooth socket. Eat soft foods only for the first day after surgery, and slowly transition into other foods as you heal.
5. Have a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Clean your mouth regularly. Do not brush your teeth or spit on the first day after surgery. Instead, rinse your mouth carefully. Use a gentle toothbrush once you resume your regular hygiene routine and be particularly gentle around the surgery zone. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water once every two hours during the first week to help with healing.
If you’re seeking convenient wisdom teeth extractions near you or trying to find a quality dental clinic in Calgary, we’ve got you covered! Contact our friendly staff to book an appointment and speak to a dentist about your options.