Does It Hurt To Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Introduction
Wisdom teeth are the third molars located at the back of your mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. However, sometimes, they don't have enough space to grow, causing pain and discomfort. In such cases, the dentist may recommend removing them.
If you're wondering whether it hurts to have your wisdom teeth removed, keep reading to find out.
The Procedure
Before the procedure, the dentist will administer anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may receive local, sedation, or general anesthesia.
Once you're numb, the dentist will make an incision in your gum to access the tooth. They may need to remove some bone to access the tooth's root. Once they've removed the tooth, they'll stitch up the gum and place gauze over the extraction site to stop any bleeding.
The Recovery
After the procedure, you'll need to rest for a few days. You may experience swelling, pain, and discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers. You should avoid eating hard, crunchy, or hot foods for a few days, as they can irritate the extraction site.
You'll also need to rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the extraction site clean and promote healing. You should avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or spitting, as these activities can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Does It Hurt?
The answer to this question is not straightforward. The level of pain you experience depends on various factors, such as the complexity of the extraction, the type of anesthesia used, and your pain tolerance.
Some people may experience only mild discomfort and pain, while others may experience more severe pain and swelling. However, your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help you manage the pain.
Complications
Although wisdom teeth extraction is a commonly performed procedure, it can sometimes lead to complications. These complications include:
- Dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot in the extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves.
- Infection, which can occur if bacteria enter the extraction site.
- Nerve damage, which can cause numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the tongue, lips, or cheeks.
If you experience any of these complications, you should contact your dentist immediately.
Conclusion
Removing your wisdom teeth can be a painful experience, but it doesn't have to be. With proper pain management and aftercare, you can minimize the pain and discomfort and promote healing.
If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your wisdom teeth, you should consult your dentist to determine whether extraction is necessary.
