Extractions
Wisdom teeth extractions are a fairly common procedure. Wisdom teeth often
cause problems as they are trying to protrude through the gums. When a wisdom
tooth is impacted, it means the tooth is coming in at an angle and not
straight through the gum line. This can cause pain, the tooth can come in
unevenly, or the tooth may only emerge partially.
When a wisdom tooth only emerges partially a flap of skin, called an
operculum, may form over the tooth. This can make the tooth hard to clean, and
pieces of food may be caught under the skin. This makes it easy for an
infection, called pericoronitis, to develop. It will usually go away on its
own, but it causes swelling and pain in the area.
Impacted teeth
and wisdom teeth that can potentially cause problems, like infections, need to
be removed. Extractions can range from a single tooth, to removing all four
wisdom teeth at once. Based on the preference of the doctor and/or the
patient, a local anesthetic could be used to numb the areas where the teeth
will be extracted. Others will prefer to go under a general anesthetic so that
they will be sedated during the procedure.
The gum tissue around
the wisdom tooth is cut open to reveal the tooth. The tooth is loosened by
gripping it tightly and wiggling it back and forth until it can be lifted out
of the gums. Sometimes a tooth may be impacted so tightly that it cannot be
simply lifted out of the gums. In cases like this the tooth will be broken up
into pieces first before being removed. Depending on the incision and
extraction site, sutures may be needed to close the area. Soluble sutures are
the best option, which will dissolve on their own.
After the
surgery you will need to rest. You need to be driven home by a friend or
family member because of the anesthesia. You can expect for the extraction
site to bleed for a little while after the surgery. Gauze will be applied at
the completion of the surgery, and you will need to change it when it becomes
soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call your
dentist. Rest when you return home, but do not lie flat. This could prolong
the bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow when lying down. Your dentist will
prescribe you pain medication, so if you become sore take as directed. You can
also use an ice pack for the pain. Your dentist might also provide you with a
cleaning solution to clean the extraction site.
You will be
limited to soft foods for a few days after your surgery. Some recommended
foods are:
- Gelatin
- Pudding
- Yogurt
- Mashed Potatoes
- Ice Cream
- Thin Soups
- ...and other food you can eat without chewing.
When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw. The sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. The same goes for smoking. If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or don't feel that the extraction site is healing properly call your dentist for a follow up.