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table filled with medication bottles scattered across it

Medications to Avoid Before Wisdom Teeth Surgery

July 05, 202418 min read

Preparing for wisdom teeth surgery requires attention to detail, especially when it comes to medications that may complicate the procedure. Before you even rinse with mouthwash or consider the wonders of clove oil for temporary relief, it's essential to visit the "wisdom teeth information" page for a thorough grasp of what to expect. Your consultation should include an evaluation with your specialist to discuss any over-the-counter items or prescriptions that may affect your wisdom tooth extraction. Importantly, addressing these concerns in advance promotes a smooth surgery and recovery process. Keep reading to discover the specific medications you’ll need to avoid and why their exclusion is critical for your wellbeing.

Key Takeaways

  • Certain Medications Can Increase Bleeding Risks During Wisdom Teeth Surgery

  • Herbal Supplements May Complicate Surgical Outcomes and Should Be Disclosed to Surgeons

  • Adjusting Diabetes Medications Is Crucial for Maintaining Blood Sugar Levels During Surgery Fasting

  • Clear Communication With Healthcare Providers About All Medications Is Essential for Safe Surgery Preparation

  • Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Therapies Require Cautious Management Prior to Dental Procedures

Anticlotting (Blood Thinning) Medications

a dentist and a patient are seen in consultation, discussing a document together.

Prior to undergoing wisdom teeth extraction, a critical step in my preparation is to assess any medications I'm currently taking, especially those recognized by the Food and Drug Administration to influence blood clotting. As someone who might be on anti-clotting therapy for a variety of health reasons, understanding the risk these pose to surgical procedures, like wisdom teeth removal, is paramount. Complications during dental surgery, although rare, can include excessive bleeding, and the risk is significantly heightened if anticlotting agents are not managed appropriately.

Discontinuing blood thinning medications is a delicate process that generally requires collaboration with my healthcare provider, particularly if the medication was prescribed after a significant event like vascular surgery. The delicate balance between preventing clot formation and minimizing surgical bleeding is a dialogue I need to have with both my dentist and my primary care physician to ensure a safe transition off these medications, if recommended, in preparation for my dental procedure.

It's fascinating how substances I consume daily can interact with my medication regimen. For instance, it might not be commonly known that drinking certain types of juice, like grapefruit juice, can affect how blood thinners work in my body. This is why, as I prepare for surgery, I must be vigilant about not only the medication I take but also the diet I follow, to avoid any unintended interference with my body's natural healing process.

Moreover, as a general rule of thumb, I've learned the importance of reconfirming all medication and supplement use with my oral surgeon well ahead of the scheduled surgery date. Clarity and communication are crucial to ensuring my treatment plan is tailored to my specific circumstances and that all potential bleeding risks are mitigated beforehand.

Navigating the maze of pre-surgery protocols is no small feat, but understanding the intricacies of blood thinners is essential. Now, let's pivot to the cornerstone of any medical preparation: consulting with your doctor.

Ask Your Doctor

a patient intently listens to a doctor's advice in a consultation room.

When I was advised to undergo wisdom teeth surgery, my doctor stressed the critical importance of disclosing all medications I'm currently taking. One particular warning that stood out was regarding aspirin; as it possesses blood-thinning properties, it could potentially elevate the risk of excessive bleeding during the procedure. Thus, my doctor and I discussed the optimal time to discontinue its use before the surgery.

Inquiring about recovery, I learned about the simple yet effective use of an ice pack to manage post-operative swelling. Despite the simplicity of this advice, my doctor mentioned that certain over-the-counter medications can diminish its effectiveness, which reminded me that even seemingly harmless treatments can impact my healing trajectory.

Further into our conversation, my doctor referenced guidelines from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, emphasizing a proactive approach to detect any signs of tooth decay or infection prior to surgery. Given the risk of complications, ensuring optimal oral health beforehand was described as a requisite, not an option, to promote a smooth and successful recovery.

My consultation became a vital avenue for understanding the multifaceted nature of preoperative preparation. It was more than just steering clear of aspirin; it was a comprehensive review of medications, habits, and even dietary intakes that might jeopardize my surgery or recovery. Every question I asked fortified my knowledge, enabling me to step into the procedure with confidence and well-founded assurance.

Now that you've consulted with your healthcare provider, let's broaden our focus. Prepare to uncover the other medications you need to steer clear of before your wisdom teeth surgery.

Other Medications

a close-up of a patient having a conversation with their oral surgeon in a well-lit clinic office.

When preparing for wisdom teeth surgery, my surgeon highlighted the necessity of discontinuing certain medications which could affect sedation levels. One such medication is midazolam, often used to induce drowsiness and relieve anxiety before procedures. My responsibility involves informing my surgeon of any history I have with midazolam to adjust the sedation plan accordingly.

I never thought I might have to confront an allergy during dental surgery, but my oral surgeon explained the importance of disclosing any allergic reactions I've experienced with medications. In particular, propofol, a common sedative used in surgeries, could be substituted if I have had a previous adverse reaction to it, ensuring my procedure is both safe and comfortable.

While discussing post-operative pain management, the option of codeine was brought on the table. However, due to its potential for side effects and the risk of dependency, my surgeon and I considered alternative pain relief options. Being upfront about my comfort with various pain medications, including codeine, aids in creating a personalized post-surgery plan that aligns with my preferences and medical history.

Another aspect my oral surgeon brought to my attention was the medications that could interfere with a bone graft, should I require one during wisdom tooth extraction. Planning a graft involves a careful review of my current medication regimen to preclude any that might compromise the graft's success or delay healing. Knowledge of my medication intake is integral to ensuring a successful outcome for any additional procedures adjunct to the wisdom teeth removal.

Shifting focus, we now turn our attention to a pivotal aspect of your pre-surgical prep: the medications that actually promote healing and comfort. Stay tuned, as we reveal the drugs that will be your allies in the journey towards a smooth recovery.

What Medications Should Patients Take Before Surgery?

a surgeon and patient thoughtfully discussing over a medical chart in a calm, well-lit consultation room.

As my surgery date approached, my oral surgeon and I discussed appropriate preoperative care, focusing on my gums and overall oral health. Establishing a conducive environment for healing, we chose to avoid certain analgesics like ibuprofen that could increase bleeding, opting for alternatives that wouldn't affect gum tissue integrity.

The subject of cardiology was broached as we reviewed my medical history—any heart-related medications were to be continued under the guidance of my cardiologist. It was imperative that my heart function remain stable through the perioperative period, ensuring a safe dental procedure.

Regarding pain management leading up to the surgery, my surgeon approved the use of certain analgesics that wouldn't compromise the healing of my gums. One such medication we discussed was ketoprofen, which, when taken judiciously, offers reliable pain relief with minimal impact on blood clotting.

My surgeon emphasized the key medications and practices I should adhere to before surgery to prepare my body optimally:

  1. Follow through with any cardiology-related medications, pending approval from my healthcare team.

  2. Strictly manage analgesic intake, using approved options like ketoprofen only as needed for pain.

  3. Maintain oral hygiene to promote healthy gums, making sure the surgical site is in the best possible condition.

  4. Consult closely with both my dentist and primary care physician to ensure all perioperative care aligns with my overall health needs.

As we consider the necessary preparations for surgery, maintaining stable blood pressure is critical. So, let's zone in on antihypertensive medications and their crucial role in the surgical setting.

Antihypertensive Medications

a patient is thoughtfully discussing with their healthcare providers in a brightly lit consultation room.

When I consulted with my oral surgeon about wisdom teeth removal, one of the first areas we discussed was my use of antihypertensive medications. These drugs are crucial for managing my blood pressure, but I was surprised to learn they could have implications on my respiratory tract during surgery. Given the delicate nature of managing airways when under sedation, I realized the importance of reviewing these medications with my oral surgeon and anesthesiologist ahead of time.

During my review, we discussed the relevance of certain supplements like vitamins in conjunction with my blood pressure medication. My surgeon advised that while maintaining my vitamin intake is generally beneficial, some ingredients could exacerbate toothache, affect my response to local anesthetic, or interact with medications prescribed for the surgery. This drove home the necessity of full disclosure regarding even over-the-counter supplements and vitamins that I often considered harmless.

My conversations with healthcare professionals also touched on the effects that some blood pressure medications can have on blood sugar levels. Since I have a predisposition to hyperglycemia, the interplay between my antihypertensives and fluctuating blood sugar levels could not be taken lightly. With this in mind, we crafted a strategy to monitor and control my blood sugar before and after the procedure.

It became clear to me that the medications and supplements I take routinely required a thorough review and potential adjustments before I could safely go through with wisdom teeth surgery. Here's an overview of the considerations we mapped out regarding my antihypertensive medications and surgery preparation

We've just discussed the complexities of managing blood pressure before dental surgery. Up next, let's tackle the critical topic of blood thinners, a key conversation for anyone facing wisdom teeth extraction.

Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Therapy

a surgeon and patient sit across from each other at a desk, discussing a document.

As my wisdom teeth surgery approaches, there's a pressing need to discuss the use of anticoagulants and antiplatelet therapy with my surgeon. These medications, vital for preventing thrombus formation in at-risk individuals, could significantly increase the incidence of bleeding during dental procedures. Moreover, foods such as garlic, known for their natural antiplatelet properties, should be on my radar to avoid prior to surgery.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists provides guidelines that I find particularly useful in preparing for anesthesia during wisdom teeth removal. This includes adhering to specific recommendations about when to pause anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy before undergoing any surgical procedure.

My preparation for surgery doesn't stop at medication review; lifestyle habits and dietary choices also warrant careful consideration. It's intriguing how even the innocuous inclusion of garlic in my diet could have measurable effects on my body's clotting mechanism—and potentially on the safety and success of my procedure.

Given these variables, I decided to create a table that outlines my plan to manage medications and dietary elements that affect blood clotting and anesthesia effectiveness:

Aspect

Action

Anticoagulant Therapy

Consult with my surgeon on timing to pause medication.

Antiplatelet Medications

Discuss with my healthcare provider about discontinuation before surgery.

Dietary Antiplatelets

Eliminate foods like garlic well in advance of the procedure.

Anesthesia Preparation

Adhere to the guidelines provided by the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

Ensuring that each of these aspects is adequately addressed provides me with the reassurance that I'm well-prepared for my upcoming wisdom teeth surgery, minimizing risks and setting the stage for a smoother recovery. The due diligence in reviewing my medications and diet will help in preventing any undue complications that could arise from anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy or the anesthesia process itself.

Understanding anticoagulants and antiplatelet therapy is crucial, but there's more to consider. Let's pivot our attention to pain medications and their role before wisdom teeth removal.

Pain Medications

a patient and oral surgeon discussing over a tablet in a modern dental office.

Preparing for wisdom teeth extraction means being mindful of the pain medications I take beforehand. A tooth surgery can be delicate, and certain analgesics may affect platelet function, leading to increased bleeding risk during the operation. Therefore, I consult diligently with my oral surgeon to identify which pain relievers could pose a potential concern.

I've come to understand that some pain medications can also influence breathing. As wisdom teeth removal often involves sedation, it's essential that I avoid any drugs that could depress respiratory function. This precaution ensures my safety and maintains optimal conditions for both my sleep and recovery following the procedure.

It's imperative for me to be able to recognize any signs and symptoms of adverse reactions to medications before my dental surgery. Should any unusual changes occur, such as increased tooth pain, swelling, or difficulties in breathing, I know I should report these to my healthcare provider at once. This proactive stance allows for the adjustment of my pre-surgery medication regimen to avoid complications.

Restful sleep is crucial for recovery, but I'm aware that the pain medications I might normally take to alleviate discomfort could disrupt my sleep-wake cycle. With my upcoming surgery in mind, I work closely with my doctor to select pain management options that promote healing without interfering with the quality of my rest.

Let's keep the momentum going and zoom in on another critical category: your blood sugar and weight management meds. Don't underestimate their impact; the right balance could dramatically shape your recovery journey.

Medications for Diabetes and Weight Loss

a bottle of insulin and a food scale sit side by side on a kitchen counter.

As my wisdom teeth surgery date gets closer, I've become particularly attentive to managing my diabetes medications. The need for fasting prior to the procedure requires me to coordinate with my endocrinologist to adjust my dosing schedule. This ensures that I maintain blood sugar levels within a safe range to avoid any complications during the extraction.

Given my personal weight loss journey, I'm cautious about any wisdom tooth medicine that could potentially induce dizziness as a side effect. As a protective measure, I have consulted with my dentist and they advised me of specific medications to avoid in the days leading up to surgery, ensuring my stability and safety throughout the experience.

The interplay between surgery and my diabetes medication can sometimes affect my body's normal responses, such as fever regulation. With this in mind, I vigilantly monitor my body's signals and maintain open communication with my healthcare team to swiftly address any concerns like unexpected fever that may arise as I prepare for surgery.

Above all, I am proactive about disclosing all my medications, recognizing that certain drugs for diabetes and weight loss can influence my surgery outcomes. I take extra care to avoid any pre-surgery medications that can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, which could complicate both the procedure and my road to recovery.

Knowing which pills to pop for diabetes or weight management is just one part of staying on top of your health. Next up, we tackle the must-knows about keeping your oral surgery in safe from medication mishaps.

Medications to Avoid Prior to Your Oral Surgery

a person thoughtfully examines a medicine cabinet.

As I navigate the days leading up to my wisdom teeth extraction, I am keenly aware that the contents of my medicine cabinet and kitchen spice rack can have more sway over my surgical outcome than I ever realized. Certain hearty herbal supplements that I once regarded as benign now warrant caution, while staple prescriptions on my nightstand demand a second glance. The potency of blood thinners looms large in my preparation, underscoring the need for a well-timed cessation to curb bleeding risks. I also find myself deciphering the implications of bisphosphonate use and its potential impact on my jaw’s well-being during and after surgery. Amid this preoperative puzzle, the importance of a proactive approach crystallizes; it isn't just about having an extra pillow at hand for post-surgery comfort or an antibiotic to fend off infection, but understanding the deeper interplay between each pill, each comorbidity, and my blood's ability to clot. With these top of mind, I'm prompted to engage in a conversation with my Grapevine oral surgeon, ensuring no stone is left unturned in my pursuit of a safe, successful dental journey.

Common Herbal Supplements to Avoid

As I mulled over my upcoming wisdom teeth extraction, I stumbled upon an unexpected consideration—herbal supplements. Little did I realize, in my cabinet of natural remedies for chronic pain and other ailments, there were several herbs known to potentially complicate surgical outcomes due to their blood-thinning properties or interference with anesthesia.

My meticulous review of my medical record revealed that some of these herbal supplements might exacerbate bleeding, or worse, contribute to a postoperative abscess. It became clear; eliminating these from my regimen well before the surgery was as crucial as avoiding aspirin. My focus extended beyond the immediate area of the molar to how these supplements could affect my body's overall fluid management during the procedure.

Common Drugs to Avoid

I've become keenly aware that my liver's well-being is pivotal. Certain medications, including acetaminophen, place undue stress on this vital organ, complicating both the procedure and recovery. Hence, adhering to my clinic's policy to avoid such liver-straining drugs is a precaution I'm careful not to overlook.

It's a small detail, but even something as seemingly trivial as the clothes I choose to wear on surgery day—a comfortable set of clothing that fosters a sense of ease and accessibility—plays into the broader spectrum of care standards upheld by my dental clinic. This extends to my at-home medication regimen, where I consciously steer clear of drugs that could unnecessarily tax my system or counteract the clinic's protocol for a safe surgical experience.

Blood Thinners: What You Should Know

Approaching wisdom teeth surgery requires vigilance with medications, particularly blood thinners, which are pivotal in the prevention of conditions like venous thrombosis. Following my surgery consultation, I've learned that if I'm on a blood thinner, any sustained injury during the extraction could lead to complications far more serious than the usual swelling and discomfort, like excessive bleeding or nausea.

My primary care physician emphasized the critical importance of adjusting the dose of my blood thinner prior to surgery. This is not a decision to be taken lightly; it necessitates a careful, individual assessment to ensure my safety while minimizing the risk of clot formation or bleeding excessively during the dental procedure:

Bisphosphonates: What You Should Know

Discussing bisphosphonates with my health care provider was an eye-opener. These medications, often prescribed for osteoporosis, can have implications on dental health, particularly during surgeries like wisdom teeth extraction, as they impact bone regeneration and healing.

My surgeon advised me that since bisphosphonates linger in the bone for an extended period, they could complicate extraction sites healing if I've been using them. We also reviewed my other medications, including diabetes medication and those for managing blood pressure and sleep apnea, to ensure no interactions would occur with the syringe-administered anesthetics during surgery.

An Important Reminder

As I gather my thoughts and prepare myself for wisdom teeth surgery, comfort is etched at the forefront of my mind. I cannot underscore enough the significance of pausing anticoagulant drugs to evade unpleasant surprises during the extraction, all while ensuring that my stomach isn't rattled by pre-surgery anxiety or medications that might disturb its usual rhythm.

In the quiet moments leading up to the procedure, I will be clinging to my routine rinsing with chlorhexidine, trusting its ability to reduce bacteria and safeguard my mouth's health. The balance of my body's natural defenses, like the cleansing action of my saliva, coupled with this antimicrobial rinse, forms a shield, conducive to a serene recovery post-surgery.

Contact Your Grapevine Oral Surgeon Today

If you have concerns about rivaroxaban interference with your upcoming procedure or any other medication you're taking, reach out to your Grapevine oral surgeon. By providing your email address, you enable a clear and direct channel of communication to address any uncertainties as a patient as you prepare for surgery.

Whether it's questions about potentially developing a cyst post-surgery, or advice on oral hygiene practices with your toothbrush during recovery, your surgeon is there to ensure your peace of mind. Together, you can navigate the pre-surgery landscape to safeguard your health and well-being.

With your surgery in Colleyville scheduled, it's time to scrutinize your medicine cabinet. But which pills should you steer clear of before the extraction? Let's take a closer look.

Drugs to Avoid Before Tooth Extraction

a dental clinic waiting room with informational posters on the walls about pre-surgical care.

As my wisdom teeth removal date draws closer, the conversation about medication safety becomes particularly focused on the circulatory and cardiovascular systems. I'm advised to stop taking anything that might thin the blood or affect veins adversely, as these can lead to increased bleeding during extraction and heighten the risk of a stroke.

In preparation, it's essential to acknowledge not just the obvious medications, but also the subtler ones, like certain creams that promote blood flow or contain anti-inflammatory properties. My doctor's advice was clear: any topical treatments that could thin the blood or affect the surrounding tissue needed to be paused.

  • Discontinue blood-thinning medications to protect veins and reduce bleeding risk.

  • Avoid creams that might alter blood flow or interfere with tissue healing.

  • Stay vigilant in recognizing medications that could exacerbate conditions like apnea during sedation.

  • Ensure a thorough medication review with my healthcare provider to mitigate any stroke risk.

With a condition like sleep apnea, I have to take special care with the drugs I consume. They can complicate the sedation process, and any interference with normal breathing patterns could be critical. It is my responsibility to clear this with my oral surgeon and provide a full list of my medications, including those for apnea.

Every instruction is planned to mitigate risk and ensure the safest surgery outcome. Guided by my healthcare provider's expertise, I am to steer clear of specific medications that may affect my recovery, paying attention to those that could impact the veins, tissue, or exacerbate conditions such as apnea, thereby avoiding potential complications like a stroke.

Conclusion

Ensuring the safe removal of wisdom teeth entails careful review and possible cessation of certain medications, particularly those affecting blood clotting and sedation. Open dialogue with healthcare providers is crucial for managing medications, such as anticoagulants and analgesics, that could introduce complications during the surgery. Patients must consider not only prescription drugs but also over-the-counter supplements and even dietary elements with potential blood-thinning properties. Ultimately, a personalized and proactive approach to medication management promotes optimal surgical outcomes and paves the way for a smooth recovery.

wisdom teeth medicationspre surgery medicationsavoiding medications before wisdom teeth extractions
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are wisdom teeth, and why do they need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often cause problems because there is insufficient space for them to fully emerge or they may grow in an improper position. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure to address these concerns.

How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

If you are experiencing pain, swelling, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or overcrowding, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. Based on their assessment, they can recommend the need for wisdom teeth removal. If you do not have a dentist, please call us and set up a FREE consultation and x-ray to determine a plan that is right for you.

Why are the third molars referred to as wisdom teeth?

According to the Oxford Dictionary, third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth because their common age of eruption is between 17 and 25. Aristotle explained it this way 2500 years ago!

"The last teeth to come in man are molars called ‘wisdom-teeth’, which come at the age of twenty years, in the case of both sexes. Cases have been known in women upwards of eighty years old where at the very close of life the wisdom-teeth have come up, causing great pain in their coming; and cases have been known of the like phenomenon in men too. This happens, when it does happen, in the case of people where the wisdom-teeth have not come up in early years."

— Aristotle, The History of Animals.

Why do we have third molars if we just remove them?

Third molars helped our human ancestors to grind plant tissue during a time when leafy greens were a more important part of our diet. It is thought that the skulls of our ancestors had larger jaws with more room to accommodate more teeth which helped them to chew foliage more efficiently. This was important because humans lack the ability to efficiently digest cellulose, an important part of plant cell walls. Since the advent of agriculture, almost 10,000 years ago, our diets have become softer and include a larger amount of sugar and high energy foods. These diets have resulted in smaller jaws and not enough room for the wisdom teeth. So when they begin to erupt, they are often painful or crooked and do not fit properly in the mouth. Their removal becomes mandatory for a healthy mouth.

What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?

The process for wisdom teeth removal involves a surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. It typically includes making an incision in the gum tissue, removing any bone that blocks access to the tooth, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces and then removing the pieces and suturing the incision. This procedure ensures the complete removal of the impacted or problematic wisdom tooth.

Does everyone have 4 wisdom teeth?

No, although 4 is the most common number (one in each corner of the mouth); some people have 1, 2 or 3 wisdom teeth and some people don’t have any at all! In rare cases people develop additional teeth in the area of the wisdom teeth call ‘para-molars’ and may have 5 or more!

Does wisdom teeth removal require anesthesia or sedation?

Wisdom teeth removal usually requires some form of anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will discuss the options with you, which may include local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth or general anesthesia to render you unconscious during the surgery. We provide an IV sedation for each patient we see. This guarantees you maximum comfort, no memory of the procedure and a faster recovery.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but it generally takes about a week to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, such as taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs, can aid in a smoother recovery process.

What are the potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal?

Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and temporary or permanent jaw stiffness. However, these complications are relatively rare, and your dental professional will take necessary precautions to minimize the risks.

Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?

Initially, you’ll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the surgery to facilitate healing. As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet. It’s important to avoid straws and hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction sites. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines to follow.

Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?

Prior to wisdom teeth removal, your dental professional will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation. These instructions include: fasting 5-6 hours before the surgery, avoid smoking or using a straw post-surgery, take regularly prescribed medications, apply ice packs, maintain proper oral hygiene, and call us if you encounter any problems on our 24/7 after care nurse line. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.

Will I experience pain during or after the removal?

The procedure itself is usually painless due to anesthesia or sedation. However, it is common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your dentist may prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. Additionally, using home remedies such as applying ice packs and rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.

What are the alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?

In certain cases where the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any problems, they may not need to be removed. Regular monitoring and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure they do not cause complications in the future. However, if extraction is recommended, it is typically the most effective solution to prevent potential issues associated with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.

What does it mean that a wisdom tooth is ‘impacted’?

Your dentist will classify a tooth by the degree to which it has been able to grow out of your jaw bone. If a tooth remains trapped in the bone, usually by a lack of space or close proximity to other teeth, the tooth is considered to be ‘impacted’. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and need to be removed, you will experience some degree of swelling around the lower wisdom teeth. Sometimes patient’s refer to this as the “chipmunk effect” because after surgery you look like you are packing nuts in your cheeks like a chipmunk!

When is the best time to remove the wisdom teeth?

This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your doctor will help you decide when the time is right - They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 25% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.- If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.- Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.- Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.- …And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!

What could happen if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth when my doctor recommends that I do?

If you wait until your adult years to remove your wisdom teeth several things become more complicated about your surgery.- First, at some point in your late-late teens or early twenties, your lower wisdom teeth will grow root tips and finish developing. Once this happens, the risk of the root tips interfering with the nerve in your mandible raises the risk of temporary or permanent numbness in your lower lip and chin.- The older you become, generally the more dense your bone becomes. Increased bone density will increase the difficulty of removing the wisdom teeth and could cause additional swelling and healing time.- Younger patients heal faster and with less complications overall than older patients. Younger patients generally experience less dry socket, pain and swelling than older patients.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket (local alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is lost from the hole left in the jaw after a wisdom tooth is extracted. It generally results in a dull, uncomfortable ache. It is easily treated in the office where you had your wisdom teeth removed.

What can be done to prevent a dry socket?

We see very few dry sockets in our practice! We are excited to provide you with a state of the art procedure called Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to reduce your chances of dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100! We offer this procedure at no charge to you! After placing your IV, we will draw a small amount of blood. That blood will be put into a centrifuge and spun very fast until it separates into distinct layers. One of the layers, the Platelet Rich layer contains numerous white blood cells, neutrophils and other key components of healing. This portion of your blood will be put back into the socket to stimulate bone growth and healing, reduce pain and inflammation and dramatically reduce your chance of dry socket. Dr. Hendrickson believes PRF is so beneficial that he provides this service to all of his patients at no cost. Thanks to PRF treatment we see a very small number of dry socket.

Where are you located?

We have 2 locations. Our Provo & Murray offices are located...

Provo Location:

2230 N University Pkwy #8A

Provo, Utah

84604

(801) 370-0050

Murray Location:

5888 S 900 E #101

Murray, UT

84121

(801) 370-0050

What are your hours?

We are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am -5:00 pm MST.

Surgeries are scheduled on Thursdays (Provo) and Fridays (Murray).

Provo Location:

2230 N University Pkwy #8A

Provo, Utah

84604

(801) 370-0050

Murray Location:

5888 S 900 E #101

Murray, UT

84121

(801) 370-0050

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