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Home › What to Expect When Wisdom Teeth or Third Molars Need to Be Removed

What to Expect When Wisdom Teeth or Third Molars Need to Be Removed
Posted on 9/16/2024 by Smile More Spokane Family Dentistry
Photo of xray from Smile More Spokane Family Dentistry in Spokane, WAWisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last permanent teeth to erupt in the mouth, typically appearing in the late teens or early twenties. However, sometimes these teeth can cause problems and need to be removed. This article will discuss what to expect if you need to have your wisdom teeth removed.

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?


There are several reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be removed. These include:

•  Impaction: This is the most common reason for wisdom tooth removal. Impacted teeth are teeth that are unable to erupt fully because they are blocked by other teeth or bone. This can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth.
•  Crowding: Wisdom teeth can sometimes crowd other teeth, leading to misalignment and difficulty cleaning.
•  Cysts or Tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth can develop cysts or tumors that can damage the jawbone or surrounding tissues.
•  Gum Disease: Impacted wisdom teeth can make it difficult to clean the back of the mouth, which can lead to gum disease.

What to Expect Before Surgery


Before your wisdom teeth are removed, your dentist will take X-rays to determine the position of the teeth and develop a treatment plan. They will also discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with you and answer any questions you may have.

The Surgical Procedure


The procedure for removing wisdom teeth is typically performed under local anesthesia. This means that you will be awake during the surgery, but the area around the teeth will be numbed. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used.

The dentist will make an incision in your gum to expose the wisdom tooth. They will then remove the tooth, either in one piece or in sections. Once the tooth is removed, the dentist will stitch the gum closed.

Recovery After Surgery


After surgery, you can expect some swelling and pain. Your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help manage the discomfort. You will also need to eat soft foods for a few days and avoid strenuous activity.

It is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully during the recovery period. This will help ensure that you heal properly and avoid complications.

Potential Risks and Complications


As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom tooth removal. These include:

•  Pain and swelling: This is the most common side effect of surgery. It typically lasts for a few days and can be managed with pain medication.
•  Infection: Infection is a rare but possible complication of surgery. It can be treated with antibiotics.
•  Dry socket: This occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket after surgery dissolves too soon. It can cause pain and delayed healing.
•  Nerve damage: In rare cases, the nerves that supply sensation to the tongue, lips, or chin can be damaged during surgery. This can cause numbness or tingling.

Conclusion


Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure that is typically performed to prevent problems caused by impacted or crowded teeth. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and involves removing the tooth and stitching the gum closed. Recovery typically involves some pain and swelling, which can be managed with pain medication. It is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully during the recovery period to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
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