Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars. They are located in the back of your mouth and generally emerge between the age of 17 and 25. The eruption of these molars can be quite painful in some cases and even cause infections. In such cases, the removal of wisdom teeth may be required. At Alencar Family Dentistry in Chesapeake, Virginia, Dr. Oliveira will perform a thorough examination and determine the best course of action.
Why Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth become impacted when there is insufficient space for normal eruption. They may either erupt at a wrong angle or not fully erupt. The site around the affected tooth can become swollen, infected, and painful.Â
Some of the symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth include:
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Pain and swelling around the jaw
- Foul breath
- Headache or jaw ache
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth especially when eating
How to Prepare for Wisdom Tooth Removal?
The duration of the wisdom teeth extraction may vary depending on the complexity of the situation and the number of teeth that need to be pulled out. Before the extraction, Dr. O will give you specific instructions to prepare for the procedure. You will need to fast the night before and you should not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours before receiving an anesthetic. We also recommend that someone accompany you to the office for your procedure as the effects of the anesthesia will take some time to wear off.
How Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Work?
Once the anesthesia is administered, Dr. Oliveira will begin to widen the socket around your wisdom teeth. The tooth will carefully be moved from side to side until it is loose enough to be removed with forceps.
If the tooth is deeply rooted in the gums, Dr. O we may cut through your gum and even remove some of your jawbones to reach it. Then, the opening is closed with sutures. Depending on the procedure's complexity, it can last anywhere between 10 to 20 minutes.Â
What Is the Recovery After Tooth Extraction?
Patients will typically experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days after the surgery. During the recovery process, you should:
- Eat soft foods
- Drink plenty of water
- Use an ice pack to reduce swelling
- Not brush the treated area for 24 hours after the procedureÂ
- Take the prescribed medication for pain and swelling
- Not eat hard or crunchy foods
- Not smoke
For wisdom teeth extractions in Chesapeake, Virginia, visit Alencar Family Dentistry at 711 Greenbrier Pkwy Suite 101, Chesapeake, VA 23320, or call (757) 546-0301.
