Should I Be Scared To Get My Wisdom Teeth Out
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, wisdom teeth grow without causing any problems. However, for others, these teeth can cause pain, discomfort, and even infections that require removal.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth need to be removed when they cause pain or other dental problems. Some of the reasons why wisdom teeth need to be removed include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth: This happens when the teeth don't fully emerge from the gums, causing pain, swelling, and infections.
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of place, causing misalignment and bite problems.
- Cavities: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to cavities and other dental problems.
Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Hurt?
The thought of having a tooth extracted can be scary, but the truth is that wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure that is performed under local anesthesia. This means that you won't feel any pain during the procedure.
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. However, your dentist will provide you with pain medication and instructions on how to care for your mouth to minimize any discomfort.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a simple procedure that usually takes less than an hour. Here's what happens during the procedure:
- Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth.
- The dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone.
- The tooth is gently rocked back and forth to loosen it from the bone.
- Once the tooth is removed, the dentist will clean the socket and place stitches, if necessary.
What Should I Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. Here's what you can expect:
- Discomfort: You may experience some pain and discomfort for a few days after the procedure. Your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help manage the pain.
- Swelling: Swelling is normal and can last for several days. You can reduce swelling by applying an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time.
- Bleeding: You may experience some bleeding for the first 24 hours after the procedure. Your dentist will provide you with gauze pads to place over the extraction site to help control the bleeding.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for the first few days after the procedure.
- Oral hygiene: Brush your teeth gently and avoid the extraction site for the first few days after the procedure. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help keep the area clean.
Conclusion
While the thought of having a tooth extracted can be scary, wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure that is performed under local anesthesia. The procedure itself is painless, and any discomfort or swelling can be managed with pain medication and proper aftercare. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort due to your wisdom teeth, talk to your dentist about your options for removal.