Wisdom teeth removal is typically a common oral surgery, but can be more complicated if they are impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth are molars that form but never erupt, leaving them to damage surrounding healthy molars and lead to painful tooth decay or crowding.
Having them removed early can help avoid future problems. The recovery from wisdom teeth removal Harrisonburg VA will require rest, ice packs, and soft foods.
Preparation
Wisdom teeth typically develop in adolescence and begin to erupt between the teen years and early adulthood. However, if the third molars don’t have enough room to come in properly, they can become impacted. This can lead to damage to surrounding teeth, nerves, and bone tissue. This can be prevented with early removal.
A tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that requires the expertise of a trained oral surgeon. This is why patients should trust their tooth extractions to a qualified expert who has extensive post-dental school training and experience with oral surgery procedures, including tooth extractions.
The procedure starts with the patient being numbed with local anesthetics. Once the area is numb, the doctor can open the gum tissue to expose the wisdom tooth and remove it. The tooth is often dislodged in one piece, but it may be cut into smaller pieces to ease the extraction. The remaining gum tissue is then stitched closed.
Procedure
The procedure is performed under sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the circumstances. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and after your mouth is completely numb, our oral surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue, then removes the tooth or teeth. Occasionally, wisdom teeth removal Harrisonburg VA are removed in multiple pieces to minimize risk and make it easier to clean the surgical site.
Tooth extractions are often recommended for impacted teeth that have not fully erupted, or that are erupting at an improper angle. These impacted teeth can cause pain, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth and gum tissue.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform dental extractions on a regular basis, so they have extensive experience and expertise with these procedures. This can help you maintain a healthier, more functional smile. We do everything possible to help our patients keep their natural teeth, but in some cases, a tooth extraction is the best option for your health and well-being.
Recovery
A wisdom tooth extraction can be painless thanks to local anesthesia or sedation. Dr. uses the most advanced techniques and equipment to provide safe, comfortable care. He also takes the time to educate patients on what to expect during and after the procedure, including possible recovery symptom.
The impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed in order to prevent them from causing damage, inflammation or infection in the rest of the mouth. If the wisdom teeth cannot erupt normally, they can promote infection and harm adjacent teeth by developing at an angle or not erupting at all.
The first 24 hours after the surgery are crucial for promoting healing and preventing complications. Avoid strenuous activities and stay relaxed at home, allowing the blood to clot and minimizing pain. Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft foods, and get plenty of rest. It is also important to schedule follow-up appointments and contact the oral surgeon immediately if you experience prolonged bleeding or other unusual symptoms.
Post-Operative Care
A tooth extraction is a serious medical procedure. The risk of complications can be minimized if you follow these tips for a speedy recovery.
A wisdom tooth removal may be necessary to treat severe decay or prevent a misalignment problem. Tooth extractions can also be used to prepare the mouth for dental implants.
Patients should rest at home with moderate activity as tolerated following the procedure. It is important not to disturb the blood clot that forms over the surgical site. If the blood clot is dislodged, healing will be delayed. Patients should avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the area of surgery. If a dry mouth is a concern, use mouthwash and apply ointment. It is normal to experience swelling and discomfort for several days following the procedure. This is a result of the inflammatory process that occurs after a tooth extraction. The pain should gradually subside as the swelling decreases. You will be able to chew soft foods such as Jell-O, yogurt, or warm soup after the healing period is complete.