Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately, many people experience issues with their wisdom teeth, including overcrowding, impaction, or infections. When these teeth don’t have enough room to grow in properly, they can cause discomfort, damage nearby teeth, or lead to serious oral health problems. Removal is often recommended to prevent these complications.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
The procedure is straightforward. Your dentist or oral surgeon will use local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring you feel no pain during the extraction. If the tooth is impacted, a small incision may be made to access the tooth before removing it. While some pressure may be felt, the process is generally painless. Depending on the complexity, the extraction can take anywhere from 10-30 minutes.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following the removal, it’s essential to follow your dentist's instructions for post-operative care. Expect swelling, discomfort, and mild bleeding, which can be managed with rest, ice packs, and pain relievers. You’ll need to stick to soft foods and avoid chewing near the extraction site for a few days. Most people recover within 1-2 weeks, with normal activities resuming after just a few days.
By removing wisdom teeth early, we can help you avoid pain, infection, and other dental complications, ensuring long-term oral health.