What to expect with wisdom teeth removal

Most people have their wisdom teeth, or the third molars, removed during their late teens or early twenties. They often become impacted and problematic, which is why the team at Harvest Hills Dental Care of East Gwillimbury, Ontario, may recommend surgical removal.

Why surgery?

Extraction is often performed to remove wisdom teeth from the smile, either with simple extraction or surgical extraction. A surgical extraction is performed for impacted wisdom teeth that need removal. The procedure is completed by our dental team and is generally a very safe and straightforward procedure. Here is what you can expect before, during, and following your wisdom teeth removal:

• Before the Procedure. Our dentist will give you a sedative to help you relax before surgery. You may be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around your mouth, or you may be given a general anesthetic if you are having all four of your wisdom teeth removed. Once you are sedated, the dentist will make small incisions in your gums to access your wisdom teeth.
• During the Procedure. The dentist then removes your wisdom teeth using a variety of tools. Once your wisdom teeth are removed, the incisions in your gums will be closed with stitches. You will also have gauze placed over the extraction sites to help control bleeding. The entire procedure usually takes up to an hour.
• After the Procedure. You will likely feel some pain and discomfort after having your wisdom teeth removed. Your dental team will prescribe pain medication to help you manage this pain. You may also have some swelling and bruising around your mouth and jaw, which is normal and should resolve within a few days. It is essential that you eat soft foods and avoid chewing hard foods or gum while your mouth is healing. You should also avoid drinking beverages with a straw, as this can cause the extraction sites to bleed.

Most people recover from wisdom teeth removal without any complications. However, as with any surgery, there are always some risks involved. These risks include infection, bleeding, and damage to the nearby teeth. Contact your dentist right away if you experience any severe pain, bleeding, or swelling after your wisdom teeth are removed. Our team of dentists can be reached by calling (365) 659-1008 to make an appointment to learn more about wisdom teeth extraction services.

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