Wisdom teeth are a set of extra molars that grow in during our teenage and early adult years. These teeth can pose a problem for many people due to the space they occupy in the mouth. The routine dental procedure for wisdom tooth extraction is a very common and straightforward process.
How Do Wisdom Teeth Grow In?
Wisdom teeth grow in as molars that are situated behind the set of pre-existing molars. There can be anywhere between one and four wisdom teeth, but in rare cases there can be more. These teeth can grow in naturally if they are not being impacted or prevented from penetrating the gum line. If the tooth is impacted, an extraction is considered necessary to prevent further health problems.
How Is a Wisdom Tooth Extraction Carried Out?
It is important to mention that the standard procedure for a wisdom tooth extraction involves the use of anesthetic for as little pain as possible, especially when more than one tooth is being extracted.
Firstly, the jawline and root canal are exposed by an incision around the affected area. The tooth can be extracted once the incision is made. However, in some cases the tooth is required to be broken into pieces for optimal extraction. After extraction, the patient has both stitches and gauze applied to the surgical wound.
Care After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
After the procedure, there will naturally be a bit of discomfort and pain in the jawbone, face, and neck areas. Bleeding will also persist over the next few days as the wound closes. Patients are advised to keep their head elevated when lying down to minimize bleeding. Furthermore, ice packs can be used to provide temporary relief and reduce swelling around the area. Patients will also experience difficulties consuming solid foods for a few days and may be tempted to use straws to assist in consuming sustenance. However, straws should not be used as the suction interrupts the formation of blood clots during the healing process.