What to Expect During a Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Undergoing a wisdom teeth extraction can be an intimidating experience, but understanding the procedure can help reduce any anxiety about the process. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common oral surgery that millions of people experience each year to prevent pain, infection, and other complications caused by impacted or problematic wisdom teeth. This guide will walk through what to expect before, during, and after a wisdom teeth extraction, aiming to make patients feel informed and prepared for a smooth recovery.

Pre-procedure consultation

A consultation with a periodontist is the first step in the wisdom teeth extraction process. During this initial visit, the periodontist will review the patient's dental history, assess the positioning of the wisdom teeth, and take X-rays to determine the exact location and condition of the teeth. This examination helps the periodontist decide whether extraction is necessary and allows for a tailored approach to each patient.

Preparing for wisdom teeth extraction

To ensure a smooth wisdom teeth extraction, patients may need to follow specific instructions before the procedure. These instructions might include:

• Fasting: Patients undergoing IV sedation or general anesthesia may need to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the surgery.
• Medication Restrictions: The periodontist may advise discontinuing certain medications, such as blood thinners, to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding. Patients should discuss current medications with the periodontist to determine if adjustments are needed.
• Arranging Transportation: For patients receiving IV sedation or general anesthesia, it is essential to arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure. Sedative effects can linger, making it unsafe to operate a vehicle.
• Home Preparation: To facilitate a smooth recovery, patients should have any necessary post-operative supplies ready at home, such as prescribed pain medications, ice packs, and soft foods.

The wisdom teeth extraction procedure

Wisdom teeth extraction typically takes between 45 minutes and one hour, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of teeth being removed. The procedure begins with the chosen anesthesia to ensure the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout.

After administering anesthesia, the periodontist will make small incisions in the gum tissue over the wisdom teeth. In some cases, bone tissue may need to be removed to access the teeth fully. If a tooth is impacted or positioned at an angle, it may be divided into sections to make removal easier and reduce trauma to the surrounding tissue. 

After each tooth is extracted, the periodontist will clean the area, potentially place dissolvable stitches, and apply gauze to control bleeding. The gauze also helps form a clot at each extraction site, an essential part of the healing process.

Post-extraction care and recovery

The recovery period following wisdom teeth extraction varies from person to person, but most individuals experience some level of discomfort, swelling, and bleeding for the first 24 to 48 hours. Following the periodontist's aftercare instructions promotes healing and reduces complications. Key aspects of post-extraction care include:

• Managing Bleeding: Patients should gently bite down on the gauze provided to control bleeding and encourage clot formation. Changing the gauze every 30-45 minutes can help maintain cleanliness.
• Swelling Reduction: Applying ice packs to the face in intervals (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications from the periodontist can help manage discomfort. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions to avoid complications.
• Diet Adjustments: For the first few days, patients should stick to a diet of soft, cool foods, such as applesauce, yogurt, and smoothies. Avoiding hot or spicy foods and drinking with a straw can prevent the risk of dislodging the blood clot, which could lead to a painful condition called dry socket.
• Oral Hygiene: Patients should avoid rinsing or spitting for the first 24 hours to prevent clots from dislodging. After 24 hours, gentle rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the extraction sites clean and reduce the risk of infection.
• Physical Activity: Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least a week to prevent increased blood pressure, which can lead to prolonged bleeding at the extraction sites.

Consult a periodontist for wisdom teeth extraction

Understanding what to expect during a wisdom teeth extraction can help reduce anxiety and ensure a smoother recovery. Every step, from the initial consultation to post-operative care, is designed to make the process as comfortable and effective as possible. A professional periodontist can provide the care and expertise required to address issues successfully. For more information, schedule a consultation visit today at Charles E. Dyer IV, DDS, MS, PC.

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