Wisdom teeth removal surgery or extraction is a procedure to remove the third set of molars. These molars, more commonly known as “wisdom teeth,” typically appear between ages 17 and 25. The typical recovery time from this procedure could take up to six weeks, but most people resume normal activities within a few days.
Commonly, most people will have at least one impacted wisdom tooth in their lifetime, and this means the tooth doesn’t have enough room to grow naturally as it should. Having wisdom teeth removed also ensures they don’t damage or further damage the surrounding teeth. Fortunately, Sunrise Facial and Oral Surgery is home to three incredible oral surgeons who specialize in an array of various procedures, including wisdom teeth removal.
Wisdom Tooth Removal | When It’s Time
A dentist will recommend wisdom tooth removal surgery after an exam reveals wisdom teeth impaction or any cause for damage. Potential concerns wisdom teeth can cause include:
- Infection or tooth decay
- Damage of surrounding teeth
- Periodontal disease
- Bone/Tooth loss
Often, a patient may be referred to an oral surgeon to perform the procedure. A consultation is scheduled before the surgery to review dental records and take additional X-rays to confirm surgical necessity.
Be Prepared
During the initial consultation, the oral surgeon will discuss any concerns before the procedure. They will also explain how to prepare before surgery takes place and how to plan for recovery. Consuming soft/liquid-based foods that are easy to eat often aid recovery. Smoothies, yogurt, applesauce, oatmeal, and the like are easy to eat without chewing.
What to Expect the Day of Surgery
Comfortable clothing is recommended, which is easy to move around in after. The surgery itself should take about 45 minutes, but this will be unique to each patient. With anesthesia, there shouldn’t be any pain or discomfort.
Steps for a typical procedure:
- Sedation
- Numbing
- Tissue removal
- Bone removal
- Tooth removal
- Stitches
After the Surgery
After surgery, feeling groggy is pretty normal. Pain isn’t always immediate, but it will most likely increase as the local anesthetic wears off.
Recovery
What to expect in the first 24 hours following surgery:
- Avoid rinsing too vigorously or drinking with a straw.
- Avoid brushing teeth next to the extraction site.
- Avoid alcohol & smoking
Up to six weeks of healing should be expected, but most people can resume normal activities the next day. Strenuous activities should be avoided for a week after the surgery to avoid breaking off the blood clot.
Your Comfort
Understanding what to expect before, during and after the procedure will significantly aid in relieving stress surrounding the surgery. It’s equally important for the patient to feel comfortable should they need to contact their surgeon or staff with any questions. For more in-depth information, schedule a consultation with Sunrise Facial and Oral Surgery.
