As we grow older, our mouth goes through various changes- one of which is an emerging set of wisdom teeth. These new molars often bring with them discomfort and as such, many individuals end up having them extracted. But how exactly does the extraction of wisdom teeth work? In this blog, we will walk you through the process and discuss some important factors to consider.
Firstly, it is important to note that not all wisdom teeth need to be extracted, only those that are causing issues or that have the potential to do so. The need for the extraction of wisdom teeth is determined by a dental examination, x-rays, and a discussion with your dentist. If the removal of wisdom teeth is deemed necessary, your dentist or oral surgeon will go over the details with you.
The process of extraction begins with anesthesia. The extent of anesthesia ranges from a local anesthetic to an IV sedation depending on various factors like the number of teeth being extracted and the position of the teeth. Patients undergoing an IV sedation will be unconscious and won't experience any pain. On the other hand, patients under a local anesthetic will be awake and alert, but the area being extracted will be numb.
Once the patient has been anesthetized, the dentist or oral surgeon will begin the extraction process. Wisdom teeth can be removed via two methods - simple extraction and surgical extraction. Simple extraction is done for teeth that are above the gum line and are visible. On the other hand, surgical extraction is done for teeth that are below the gum line, haven't erupted, or are encased in the jawbone.
In the case of simple extraction, the tooth is carefully rocked back and forth with a dental tool to loosen it. Once the tooth is loose, the dentist or oral surgeon will use forceps to grasp the tooth and pull it out. The wound is then cleaned, and the patient is given instructions on how to care for the wound during the healing process.
For surgical extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue, revealing the tooth and bone. Any bone blocking access to the tooth is carefully removed, allowing the dentist to extract the tooth safely. Once extracted, any debris is cleaned from the site, and the wound is sutured. The patient is given instructions on how to take care of the wound and what to expect during the healing process.
The recovery process varies from patient to patient. Generally, patients can expect some pain and swelling initially, but over-the-counter or prescription medication can manage this discomfort. During the average recovery period, patients are advised to rest, avoid smoking and drinking through a straw, eat soft foods, and rinse their mouth with salt water.
It is important to note that complications can arise after wisdom tooth extraction. One common issue is dry socket, in which the blood clot that normally forms in the extraction site breaks down or becomes dislodged, causing pain and increasing the risk of infection. However, your dentist or oral surgeon will instruct you on how to avoid this complication and how to minimize the risk of an infection.
In conclusion, the extraction of wisdom teeth is a common procedure that aims to alleviate discomfort and prevent potential issues from arising. The process involves anesthesia, a careful extraction procedure, and post-operative guidance for optimal healing. If you are experiencing discomfort or have been advised to have your wisdom teeth removed, speak with your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the procedures and your options. With a little care and guidance, the process of removing wisdom teeth can be a comfortable and painless experience.
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