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Our Wisdom Teeth Removal Information Page is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive insights into the specialized procedure we offer. Explore in-depth guides and watch educational videos. We're committed to ensuring you're well-informed and confident when choosing us for your wisdom teeth extraction needs.
Pre-Op Wisdom: A Step-by-Step for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Understanding Wisdom Teeth Removal
Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Ah, wisdom teeth — nature’s way of reminding you you're "adulting." These late bloomers usually make an appearance somewhere between ages 17 and 25, crashing your dental party when they’re least expected. But why do they have to go? Well, lack of room is a biggie. They can play a mean game of dental jenga, leading to a bunch of not-so-fun issues like gum troubles or messing up your smile. Heck, nobody wants that!
Common Reasons for Extraction:
- Running Out of Space: Your mouth isn't always ready for the surprise guests, creating a denture traffic jam.
- Impacted What Now?: It’s like they're hiding from the dentist, stuck halfway out, or they’re crashing into other teeth like a bad bumper car driver.
- Ouch Factor: Sitting back there like they own the place, causing all sorts of soreness.
- Cavity Prone Party: Halfway out means halfway dirty — and that means more visits to the dentist for clean-ups and inevitable cavity shenanigans.
Want the nitty-gritty? Jump over to why wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
Impact of Wisdom Teeth on Oral Health
So, how do these wisdom teeth shake up your mouth’s vibe? It’s not always pretty. They can cause trouble by muscling in and messing up the dental harmony you've got going.
| Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| Pain | Like a pesky neighbor at the back fence, these teeth can stir up quite the ache. |
| Infection | Half-emerged, half-trouble — these teeth are like breeding grounds for bacteria. |
| Rotten Luck | Their awkward angles can lead 'em straight into Cavityville. |
| Gum Trouble | Skimping on cleanliness back there can fire up the gums. |
| Neighbour Nuisance | Out-of-line wisdom teeth might bully their buddies, the adjacent teeth. |
Some folks get the boot for their wisdom teeth before trouble kicks off, based on dentist whispers, or 'cause those symptoms are just plain annoying. If you're wondering about timing, check out when wisdom teeth should be removed and get clued in on the signs you need wisdom teeth removed.
Feel like it’s time for a parting with your wisdom teeth? Our handy guide what to expect before wisdom teeth removal surgery walks you through what’s coming.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Experience
How Wisdom Teeth Get the Boot
Getting rid of wisdom teeth might sound scary, but it’s all about making sure those troublesome teeth don’t mess with your mouth. Here’s the lowdown on what actually goes on:
- Cutting the Gum: First, the dentist makes a small cut in the gum to see the tooth and bone.
- Bone Removal: If there's bone covering the tooth, it's gently taken away.
- Chopping the Tooth: Sometimes the tooth needs to be chopped into bits to make it easier to pull out.
- Tooth Twister: Those smaller pieces are then carefully twisted out.
- Cleanup Crew: The dentist tidies up the area, making sure there are no leftover bits.
- Sew It Up: Stitches are used to close the gum, helping it heal nicely.
Curious about why you might need this done? Check out why wisdom teeth removal is necessary for some eye-opening info.
Keeping the Ouchies Away
No one wants to feel like they're in a medieval torture chamber during surgery. So, dentists have some tricks up their sleeves to keep you comfy:
- Local Numbness: This one freezes the area right where the tooth's being yanked out. You’ll be awake but won’t feel a thing there.
- IV Drip Dreaming: It’s like taking a nap without going night-night. You’re awake but super chill and won’t remember a thing.
- General Knockout: This is heavy-duty stuff, putting you completely under, but it’s reserved for the really tricky situations or if you’re super nervous.
Dr. Wisdom Teeth suggests that IV sedation is a hit because folks don’t recall much of anything, making the whole thing feel like a breeze. If you’re getting ready for the big day, pop over to how to prepare for wisdom teeth removal surgery for the insider scoop.
| Chill Method | What It Does | Who Might Like It |
|---|---|---|
| Local Numbness | Zaps pain in just the gum area. | People okay with staying awake. |
| IV Drip Dreaming | Puts you in a dream-like state. | Perfect for some nerves but wanting to chill. |
| General Knockout | Takes you out cold. | Best for big nerves or big operations. |
Knowing these choices helps you pick what’s right for you or your loved ones, ensuring the whole thing goes smoothly. Worried about pain? Take a peek at does wisdom teeth removal hurt and ease those fears.
Post-Operative Care Instructions
After getting those pesky wisdom teeth yanked out, handling the aftercare with a bit of love and patience is key. Let's walk through what you can expect during the healing days and how to make the whole thing go as smooth as possible.
Recovery Period After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Healing after wisdom teeth surgery? Don't worry, it usually takes about a week (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). You're gonna feel some swelling, a bit of ache, and your jaw might be a little feisty with limited movement. Hang in there though—you're toughest around day 2 or 3, and then you'll start feeling better with each sunrise.
Here's a quick rundown of your recovery journey:
| Day | What's Happening |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Maximum puffiness and aches; stick to the plan for care like tea to honey |
| 3-4 | Swelling backs down; keep up with cleaning your mouth and taking your meds |
| 5-7 | A lot less swelling and aches; slowly ease back into your usual shenanigans |
| 7+ | Most folks feel like themself again; maybe time for a check-in, if needed |
Remember, follow the game plan your doc put together for you to sail through this with flying colors.
Post-Surgery Instructions for Healing
Following the "how-to" list is mega important in dodging big hiccups like infection or dry socket. Stick to these steps:
Medication
- Pain Management: Take the pain meds your doc gave you—stick to their script to keep discomfort at bay.
- Antibiotics: If they said antibiotics, swallow every last one to keep infections at arm's length.
Swelling and Discomfort
- Ice Packs: Stick some ice packs on your cheeks in 20-minute bursts during the first couple of days to keep the swelling in check.
- Elevate Head: Prop your noggin up when you're chilling to help keep the swelling down.
Oral Hygiene
- Rinse Gently: Swish with a mouthwash your doc suggested or a saltwater mix a day after surgery to keep things tidy.
- Avoid Brushing: Don’t brush the surgery spot for that first day. After that, be gentle and avoid the battle zone.
Eating and Drinking
- Soft Foods: Dig into foods that don’t need chewing, like yogurt, mashed spuds, and smoothies for the first few days can you eat before wisdom teeth removal surgery.
- Hydration: Drink up, but ditch the straws—the sucking can mess with the good stuff (the clot) that’s healing you up.
- Avoid Smoking: Skip the smokes to keep the healing crew working at top speed how to prepare for wisdom teeth removal surgery.
Activity
- Rest: Take a breather for those initial days. Keep away from anything too active that could pop the stitch or cause a bleed.
- Follow-Up: Mark your calendar for the follow-up visit to make sure everything's healing nicely why wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
If you face any funky pains or swelling that sticks around, ring up your healthcare pro pronto. You might find some extra recovery tips in our quirky guide on tips for straightening curly hair.
Important Considerations for Patients
Before getting your wisdom teeth yanked out, you gotta be prepped and clued in on what to do to make it all go as smoothly as silk. Let’s run through the prep steps and the post-care advice that'll help you breeze through this.
Pre-Surgery Prep Tips
Thinking about getting your wisdom teeth out can be nerve-wracking, but knowing what's coming can help put your mind at ease and keep things on track. Here’s the lowdown:
No Munching or Drinking:
- Usually, you’ll have to stop eating and drinking (yep, even water) from the stroke of midnight before your surgery day.
Butt Out and Booze-Free:
- Kick those bad habits to the curb—no smoking or boozing for at least 24 hours pre-op to keep away trouble and heal quicker.
Pills and Potions:
- Do what the doc says about your meds. Steer clear of anything that might mess with your operation or anesthesia.
Dress for Comfort:
- Slip into something loose and comfy on the big day. Go for short sleeves so the medical folks can easily get to your arm for any necessary sedatives.
Get a Chauffeur:
- Line up a ride home post-surgery, ‘cause after the anesthesia, driving’s a no-go.
If you fancy more detailed directions, check out our piece on how to prep for wisdom teeth removal surgery.
Follow-Up Care and Contact Info
After going through the procedure, taking care of yourself right is vital to bouncing back fast. Here’s some solid advice for what to do after the fact:
Pain and Puffiness:
- Follow your prescription for pain meds. Ice packs can be your best friend in the first day or two.
Cleanin’ Those Chompers:
- Hold off on swirling anything around your mouth for a day.
- Start a gentle salt-water rinse the day after surgery to keep it clean.
Food and Drink Dos and Don’ts:
- Stick to soft noms, and don't go gnawing near the sore spots.
- Avoid sucking through straws or lighting up—those can mess up the blood clot and lead to a dry socket, which is bad news.
Keep an Eye Out:
- Be on the lookout for infection red flags like ramped-up pain, swelling, or fever. If they show up, get in touch with your dentist, pronto.
Round-the-Clock Nurse Hotline:
- Most places offer a round-the-clock nurse hotline for any urgent issues. Make sure you've got the contact info handy, just in case (Dr. Wisdom Teeth).
| Follow-Up Care Consultation |
|---|
| Contact: Clinic's 24/7 Nurse Hotline |
| Available: Non-stop |
| Phone: [Clinic Contact Number] |
| Email: [Clinic Support Email] |
Stick to the post-surgery guidelines your dental crew gives you. For more specifics on what happens if your wisdom teeth need evicting, take a peek at signs you need wisdom teeth removed.
Getting yourself all set up beforehand and sticking to the after-care advice will make sure your wisdom teeth removal is a success and hopefully save you a bit of a headache!
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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