Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the final set of adult teeth to emerge, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. Frequently, their extraction becomes necessary to forestall pain, infections, and additional oral health issues.
The dentist in Fontana, CA, and their proficient team specialize in wisdom teeth extractions, prioritizing patient comfort and optimal outcomes. We guarantee precise procedures and strive for excellent patient satisfaction.
A comprehensive guide to wisdom tooth extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction, also known as wisdom tooth removal, is a common surgical procedure in dentistry. Extraction may be recommended to preserve your oral health and protect your other teeth from possible issues in the future.
Dentists may recommend wisdom teeth extraction for the following reasons:
- One or more impacted (partially or fully trapped in your gums or alveolar bone) wisdom teeth
- Crooked wisdom teeth
- Wisdom teeth growing sideways
- Severe pain near the back of your mouth
- Trapped food and debris around the wisdom teeth increase the risk of plaque and bacterial accumulation
- Gum disease around the third molars
- Dental decay or caries in a partially erupted wisdom tooth
- The presence of a cyst (fluid-filled pouch) around the molar
The procedure involved in wisdom teeth extraction
On the day of the procedure, your dental surgeon will:
- Administer local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums to ease pain and discomfort
- Make incisions (cuts), if necessary, to expose the trapped tooth
- Carefully loosen the tooth and lift it from the socket (tooth sectioning may be required for easy removal)
- Irritate the extraction site to ensure there is no residue or debris
- Suture the extraction site to close it
- Place a sterile gauze over the socket to slow the bleeding
The necessary precautions required after a wisdom tooth extraction
Your surgeon will give you postoperative guidelines specific to your situation. These include:
- Leave gauze in place for about 30 minutes after the extraction
- Rest as much as you can
- Use an ice pack to help reduce swelling
- Keep the extraction site clean
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly
- All antibiotics and painkillers as prescribed
- Do not drink through a straw to avoid clot dislodgement and dry socket
- Do not lift heavy things for the initial few days
- Do not eat hard, crunchy, or sticky foods
- Do not drink carbonated drinks
- Do not consume excess alcohol
Wisdom teeth extractions are common and simple dental procedures unless it is impacted or infected. This becomes crucial, especially if it harms your oral health. Consult your doctor about all the precautions required before and after wisdom teeth extraction for optimal results and healing.
