If you need to schedule a wisdom teeth extraction, you likely have numerous questions about the procedure and what it entails. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to go over the details in person.
In the meantime, here is an FAQ with questions that we hear on a regular basis.
Most people have a professional remove their wisdom teeth when there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth. The third molars can overcrowd the mouth and push the teeth out of alignment. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to remove the wisdom teeth before all the first and second molars grow in.
As such, if there is not enough room for wisdom teeth, it is better to extract them so they do not put pressure on the surrounding ones. Additionally, wisdom teeth left in the mouth can lead to pain and infections.
If teeth break through the surface of the gums and are coming in straight, then we can remove them with traditional extraction techniques. Traditional techniques involve pulling the tooth out after we numb the area surrounding the tooth. If the tooth is impacted or has yet to break through the surface of the gums, surgical extractions are necessary. In this case, the gum tissue will need to be cut open to expose the tooth.
After exposing the tooth, we can either lift the tooth out of the socket or break the tooth into pieces to remove each piece individually. Afterward, we will sufficiently clean the area, lay the gum tissue back down and suture the gums. We typically perform these surgical extractions are after a patient is put to sleep.
After a wisdom teeth extraction, one can expect for tenderness and swelling. To minimize this, use an ice pack or cold compress for 15 minutes every hour. Placing it on the face near where the area of the wisdom tooth can help to reduce swelling. Just be sure to use a paper towel or cloth so the ice does not directly touch the skin.
Additionally, ibuprofen is effective for reducing pain and swelling. We recommend that patients take a few days off work or school to avoid needing to communicate. It may be challenging to do so with the swelling, so this will allow for rest.
You need to avoid anything sharp or hard and stick with things like warm broth, yogurt, pudding and ice cream for a few days. Since your gums will be sore, you probably will not want much more than this. During a follow-up appointment, we will provide directions for when normal dietary habits can commence.
If you want to know more about a wisdom teeth extraction, what it is like, and if you need one, call our clinic and schedule an appointment. We can evaluate you and let you know what the best way to proceed is.
Request a dental appointment to dicuss wisdom teeth here: https://www.oaktreedentalashburn.com or call Oak Tree Dental at (703) 945-1285 for an appointment in our Ashburn dental office.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a procedure that is not typically enjoyable but is often necessary in order to eliminate pain and crowding within the oral cavity. Individuals that are preparing for wisdom tooth extraction may find it helpful to get familiar with the recovery process, which can be involved, depending on the number of teeth…
A wisdom teeth extraction can be daunting for many; however, rest assured that modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of tools that makes the procedure safe and efficient. Even so, a wisdom tooth extraction can make for a pretty lengthy and involved recovery process. Thankfully, there are a lot of ways to make the…
Wisdom tooth extraction is common as a lot of individuals experience eruption. The procedure is known to induce anxiety because it does require pulling teeth. However, modern technology has allowed for better techniques, which reduce recovery times and pain. Pain is typically the most common concern of wisdom tooth extraction and rightly so! Keep reading…
When wisdom teeth begin to come through, many are faced with the question of whether or not they need to have their wisdom teeth removed. While there are certainly instances where wisdom teeth removal is necessary, it is not always necessary.By being able to assess whether or not wisdom teeth are causing more trouble than…
One of the perks of choosing Invisalign® trays for tooth alignment is that there is no need for major dietary changes during treatment. Patients can still enjoy some of their favorite foods and treats without worrying about damaging brackets and wires. There is also no risk of food particles becoming lodged under or between appliances…
Before the invention of dental implants, the only options available to replace a lost tooth were dentures or bridges. Today, dental implants offer a solution that looks and feels like a natural tooth. They are attractive and comfortable, and they provide many advantages.If you are considering replacing a lost tooth with an implant, there are…