The extraction of wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, is a common but significant dental procedure. It’s undertaken to alleviate pain, prevent future problems, and enhance oral health. These teeth typically emerge in adolescence and can cause complications if there’s insufficient space in the mouth. The procedure is conducted under anaesthesia, ensuring it’s safe and efficient, yet requires a vigilant recovery period to reduce the risk of infections and other complications.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction: The Procedure Step by Step
At Quality Dent, the extraction of wisdom teeth begins with a thorough assessment of the patient’s oral health. Using advanced radiography, dentists determine the position of the teeth to plan their precise and safe removal.
Pre-surgical preparation is comprehensive. Clear instructions on the required fasting and post-operative care are provided. This helps to minimise risks during and after the procedure. The type of anaesthesia – local, sedation, or general – is selected based on the complexity of the case and patient preferences, ensuring a pain-free extraction.
During the surgery, an incision is made in the gum to access the tooth, and if necessary, bone is removed to facilitate the extraction. The tooth may be divided into smaller parts if required. After removal, the area is cleaned and sutured with self-dissolving material, aiding healing.
Post-surgery, patients are monitored until the effects of the anaesthesia wear off, receiving detailed post-operative instructions and medication for pain and inflammation. This post-operative care is key for a trouble-free recovery.
Post-Operative Care: Immediately Following Extraction
Proper recovery is crucial to prevent complications such as infections or dry socket. It is essential to attentively follow these recommendations:
- Rest: Resting and limiting intense physical activities for the first few days is crucial.
- Pain Management: Taking painkillers as directed by the dentist helps to manage pain and inflammation.
- Surgical Site Care: During the first 24 hours, it’s important to avoid rinsing, spitting, or drinking with a straw to not displace the blood clot that forms in the socket.
- Soft Diet: Consume soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that might irritate the operated area.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Gently brush your teeth and start rinsing with saline solutions after the first day, avoiding the extraction area.
Following these care instructions facilitates a trouble-free recovery.
Regular Dental Visits with Quality Dent
At Quality Dent, we understand that removing wisdom teeth can be challenging. However, with the correct care and follow-ups, most patients recover quickly and without issues. It’s important to adhere to all post-operative instructions and visit your dentist for a check-up, ensuring proper healing. If you experience unusual symptoms like severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your dentist immediately. With proper care, wisdom teeth extraction contributes to improved oral health and overall wellbeing.
If you experience any symptoms, do not hesitate to contact us today; we will schedule your appointment immediately.
