Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars in the back of your mouth that usually grow between the ages 17 and 25. Most people have wisdom teeth removal either because they are trapped in their jawbones or gums and can be painful, or they come in at the wrong angle and press against other teeth. Whatever be the reason, you should have a general idea of how it works and what to expect from the procedure.
If you have any infection, the surgery will be delayed until the infection clears up. Once you are ready, your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth is to be removed. Dentists usually recommend skipping meals a day before the surgery to prepare better.
For wisdom teeth removal, the gum tissue is ripped open, and any bone covering the teeth is removed. The tissue which connects the tooth to the bone is detached and then the tooth is removed. After tooth removal, the area has to be stitched. After the surgery, the recovery period is put off for a few days.
For speedy recovery from wisdom teeth removal, keep the following tips in mind:
- Periodically bite on the gauze pad until it soaks the blood and then replaces it. If the bleeding lasts 24 hours after the surgery, contact your surgeon fast.
- Prop up your head with pillows, and avoid lying flat as this may perpetuate the bleeding.
- Do not bite your inner cheek, lip or tongue while your mouth is numb.
- Apply ice packs on your outer cheek for 15 to 20 minutes for the first 24 hours. Follow with warm water-soaked cloth dabbing for 2 to 3 days.
- Relax as much as possible.
- Eat soft foods. Later add solid foods as your healing progresses.
- Don’t suck on a straw or any other thing as it can loosen a blood clot.
- Rinse your mouth with warm, salted water to minimize swelling and pain after the first day.
- Don’t touch the spot with your tongue or fingers.
- Brush your teeth and tongue with care.
So, now that you know what having your wisdom teeth removed entails, you will be better able to deal with the situation.
