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Wisdom Teeth Removal - Recovery From Surgery As most former patients would suggest, wisdom tooth extraction is not always a pleasant ordeal. When wisdom teeth begin to grow in, they often raise a number of oral health concerns and complications. Patients will typically have their wisdom teeth extracted in their late teens or early twenties to address ongoing pain or prevent complications before they happen. Once the wisdom teeth are removed, it is crucial to know what practices are best for your health during recovery. At Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, we aim to provide all extraction patients with the knowledge of best hygiene and health practices, as well as habits to avoid, to prevent discomfort and frustration during the recovery process. Enabling our patients to care for themselves in recovery minimizes pain, shortens recovery time, and reduces the risk of complications. The recovery period after a wisdom tooth extraction can be difficult, but knowing what to expect and how to manage recovery can improve your recovery outcomes significantly. Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?By the time your wisdom teeth begin to erupt, your jaw has likely already grown and adapted to accommodate your existing permanent teeth. This means that the wisdom teeth may not have enough space to grow in. Instead, the wisdom teeth will force their way out; this can lead to pain, crowding, and other headaches for patients. In some cases, the wisdom teeth can stop growing beneath the gums. When this happens, patients are at risk of infection, tooth decay, and gum disease. To prevent these complications and additional pain, we advise patients to have their wisdom teeth extracted as soon as they appear. How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?During an examination, our clinical team will examine the growth of your wisdom teeth. The location, position, and growth of the wisdom teeth will determine the best approach for treatment. Wisdom tooth extraction is usually considered a surgery and is best performed by an oral surgeon. Before the procedure, our team will administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. The extraction procedure is a straightforward process of accessing and removing the wisdom teeth. Our surgeons use the latest dental technology to provide ideal treatment outcomes and minimize discomfort during and after the procedure. Once your anesthesia has worn off, you may begin to feel some numbness and pain. Recovery After RemovalAfter the extraction procedure, pain and swelling are expected. Your team will ensure that any bleeding is controlled before you leave, but you may also experience slight bleeding at home. The recovery process for a wisdom tooth extraction involves a blood clot forming over the site of the extraction. To prevent the blood clot from dislodging and other complications, you will need to avoid spitting, brushing, flossing, or rinsing your mouth in the first 24 hours after surgery. Liquid meals will also be necessary during the first few days of recovery. You should not have to chew any meals, and the pain will likely prevent you from doing so. You must also avoid using a straw, as doing so can dislodge the blood clot at the surgical site and potentially cause dry socket. Speeding Up RecoveryRecovering from a wisdom tooth extraction should take a few days. All pain and swelling typically subsides after a week. To expedite healing, avoid strenuous physical activity and provide your body with the rest it needs to heal. Although liquid meals like soup, puddings, and yogurt are ideal, avoid hot liquids or drinks like alcohol, soda, and coffee during recovery. Checking in for a professional examination during recovery is ideal, as your team can monitor the healing process and help prevent severe complications. Removing your wisdom teeth isn’t always pleasant, but it shouldn’t leave you with bad memories. Looking to schedule a wisdom tooth extraction or examination? Our doctors and nurses are ready to help—give us a call at 214-363-9946 today. |
