What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
While it may sound daunting, wisdom teeth removal is among the most common procedures dentists perform. Located in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are third molars that can erupt from the gums. They typically emerge in adulthood and can cause a host of issues. Often, there isn’t room in the jaw for them, which causes pain, crowding, and sometimes even infections.
Removing wisdom teeth is often the safest way to deal with them. Here, we unpack what the surgery involves, from your initial consultation to the long-term aftercare. At Grove City Dental, we’re here to answer everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal.
How to Prepare for Surgery
For the smoothest possible procedure, we recommend taking the time to prepare, which includes understanding how events will unfold leading up to the surgery.
The Consultation Appointment
During your consultation, your dentist will:
- Examine X-rays: This allows your dentist to see the position of the wisdom teeth and if they’re impacted or partially erupted.
- Discuss sedation and anesthesia options: Your dentist will discuss options such as local anesthesia, IV sedation, and general anesthesia based on how complex the procedure is and what your
- Put together a treatment plan: After you’ve decided on a course of treatment, the dentist will go over the procedure and answer any questions you might have, which may include addressing any pre-existing medical conditions.
Understanding scenarios
Wisdom teeth vary greatly in their position and stage of development. For example, fully erupted wisdom teeth that have emerged above the gumline are typically easier to remove. In contrast, impacted wisdom teeth trapped within the jawbone or gum tissue may require a more complex removal procedure. Regardless, it’s best to be mentally prepared and follow your dentist’s instructions for how to prepare.
Transportation arrangements
You may need someone to drive you home to follow the procedure, especially if oral sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia is used. Operating a vehicle immediately after wisdom teeth removal surgery is not safe.
Fasting instructions
If you’re undergoing IV sedation or general anesthesia, then you’ll need to avoid eating or drinking for up to 6-8 hours before the surgery to reduce your risk of complications. You should also avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking certain medications 24 hours before surgery. Your dentist will let you know if any medication you’re currently on has to be temporarily paused.
What Happens During the Procedure?
On the day of the procedure, you’re going to be guided through a pretty straightforward process:
Checking in
When you arrive at the dental office, you’ll be asked to complete any final paperwork. The dentist will review the procedure with you one last time, too.
The surgery
Below is a step-by-step explanation of what happens during a wisdom teeth removal procedure at Grove City Dental:
- Depending on the option you and your dentist have chosen, you’ll be numbed locally or sedated.
- Your surgeon will make small incisions in the gums, allowing access to the wisdom teeth, which are then removed with specialized tools.
- The area where the removal occurred is cleaned thoroughly to ensure there is no debris. Stitches, which are often dissolvable, will be used to close the incision.
The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of teeth being removed and their condition.
What Happens Immediately After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Waking up after anesthesia
If you were sedated, you might feel groggy or disoriented upon waking up. This side effect is expected and typically wears off in a few hours. Your dentist will monitor your condition and make sure you’re stable before you’re released to go home.
Managing swelling and bleeding
Some swelling and bleeding are expected after the surgery. To reduce swelling, apply ice packs to your cheeks every 20 minutes. You should also be given gauze pads to bite gently on to control bleeding, which should stop within 24 hours.
Pain management
Your dentist might prescribe medication or recommend over-the-counter options to help manage the initial pain. They may also recommend a saltwater rinse over the first 24 hours to keep the area of the surgery clean.
Recovery Expectations
Within the first 24 hours of the procedure, you should expect some swelling, minor bleeding, and discomfort. When eating, stick to soft foods like yogurt and applesauce. Stay hydrated with water and clear liquids, but avoid straws, as the suction can interfere with healing.
As covered in our complete guide to recovering from wisdom teeth removal, full recovery typically takes around two weeks. Here’s a basic timeline of what you can expect:
- Days 1-3: Swelling peaks and then begins to subside. Pain management is crucial during this period.
- Day 4-7: Discomfort lessens, and you may gradually resume light activities.
- After one week: Most swelling and soreness should subside, but follow your dentist’s guidance for cleaning and activity levels.
Be sure to call your dentist if you experience excessive bleeding that doesn’t ease with pressure, severe pain that isn’t helped by medication, or any signs of infection (like having a fever, ongoing swelling, or pus.)
To ensure a smooth recovery, follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions strictly. Avoid strenuous activities, maintain proper oral hygiene, and avoid hard or crunchy foods that can irritate the surgical site.
Long-Term Care
Avoiding dry socket
If the blood clot protecting the surgical site dislodges, it exposes the bone and nerves. This situation is called a dry socket and is very painful. You can prevent it by avoiding smoking or using straws and following any cleaning instructions provided.
Reintroducing normal foods
As your healing progresses, you can slowly reintroduce everyday foods, beginning with softer and less irritating options and transitioning back to your regular diet as comfort dictates.
Follow-up appointments
Your dentist will schedule a follow-up to ensure your healing is going well. They may also remove any non-dissolvable stitches and address any lingering concerns.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Blackfoot, Idaho
Wisdom teeth removal is a safe and common procedure that helps protect oral health. Understanding what to expect and diligently following aftercare instructions helps facilitate an easy recovery and minimize potential complications.
If you’re considering wisdom teeth removal, reach out to Grove City Dental for expert advice and compassionate care. We are dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.