Where To Go To Get Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually grow at the back of the mouth. They usually develop during the late teenage years or early twenties. However, wisdom teeth can cause several problems, including overcrowding, impaction, and infection. Therefore, it may be necessary to remove them.
Why Do You Need To Remove Wisdom Teeth?
There are several reasons why you may need to remove your wisdom teeth. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding of the mouth, which can cause pain and discomfort.
- Impaction: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.
- Cysts: Wisdom teeth can cause cysts to form around them, which can damage the jawbone, nerves, and adjacent teeth.
- Infection: Wisdom teeth can also cause infections, which can lead to pain, swelling, and fever.
Where To Go To Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you need to get your wisdom teeth removed, you have several options:
- Dentist: Your regular dentist may be able to remove your wisdom teeth, especially if they are not impacted.
- Oral Surgeon: An oral surgeon is a specialist who can remove your wisdom teeth, especially if they are impacted or require surgery.
- Maxillofacial Surgeon: A maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist who can remove wisdom teeth, as well as perform other surgeries on the mouth, jaw, and face.
How To Choose The Right Specialist?
Choosing the right specialist to remove your wisdom teeth can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider:
- Experience: Look for a specialist who has experience in removing wisdom teeth.
- Qualifications: Check the specialist's qualifications and credentials.
- Referrals: Ask for referrals from family and friends, or check online reviews.
- Cost: Compare the cost of the procedure with different specialists.
What To Expect During The Procedure?
The wisdom teeth removal procedure usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Here's what you can expect:
- Anesthesia: The specialist will administer local anesthesia or sedation to numb the area around the teeth and make you more comfortable.
- Tooth Extraction: The specialist will make an incision in the gum tissue and remove the tooth or teeth. If the teeth are impacted, the specialist may need to remove some bone to access them.
- Closure: The specialist will place stitches to close the incision and stop bleeding.
What To Do After The Procedure?
After the procedure, it's essential to take care of your mouth to prevent complications and promote healing. Here are some tips:
- Bite down gently on gauze to stop bleeding and change it every 30 minutes or as needed.
- Apply ice to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, and spitting, as these can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
- Eat soft, cool foods like mashed potatoes, ice cream, and yogurt, and avoid hot, spicy, and crunchy foods.
- Take pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed by the specialist.
Conclusion
Getting your wisdom teeth removed may be necessary to prevent pain, infection, and other complications. You have several options for specialists who can perform the procedure, but it's essential to choose the right one based on experience, qualifications, referrals, and cost. During the procedure, you can expect anesthesia, tooth extraction, and closure. After the procedure, it's crucial to take care of your mouth to promote healing and prevent complications.