Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars at the back of your mouth. These teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, wisdom teeth grow just fine, but for others, they can cause a host of issues. Here are a few common reasons why wisdom teeth are removed:
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Sometimes, there isn’t enough room in your mouth for the wisdom teeth to come through properly. When they can’t fully emerge, they can become impacted, which can lead to pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.
- Crowding: If your wisdom teeth come in at an angle or crowd other teeth, they can mess up the alignment of your smile, leading to more dental issues later on.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are more prone to trapping food and bacteria, which can lead to gum infections and cavities.
- Cysts or Tumors: Though rare, wisdom teeth can sometimes cause cysts or tumours to form, which can damage the jawbone and other teeth. Removing the wisdom teeth can prevent these issues from worsening.
Now that we’ve covered why wisdom teeth need removal, let’s look at how to prepare for the procedure.
How to Prepare for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Schedule a Consultation: The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. They’ll take X-rays of your mouth to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine the best approach for the removal. This is your chance to ask any questions you may have and discuss anaesthesia options (local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia).
Book Time Off Work or School: Wisdom tooth removal often requires some recovery time. Generally, people take 1–3 days off from work or school to rest and recover. If you have a physically demanding job, you may want to plan on taking 3 to 4 days off to ensure you’re fully rested and ready to get back to your routine. Book time off so you can focus on healing without added stress.
Arrange for a Ride: Wisdom tooth removal is typically done under some form of anaesthesia, meaning you won’t be able to drive yourself home afterwards. Arrange for a friend or family member to pick you up and drive you to and from the appointment.
Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions: Your dentist or surgeon will provide specific instructions to follow before your surgery. This could include fasting for a certain period (especially if you’re having general anaesthesia). Make sure you stick to these guidelines to avoid complications during the procedure.
Stock Up on Soft Foods: After the surgery, your mouth will be sore, and chewing might be difficult. Prepare by stocking up on soft foods like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate your healing gums.
Set Up a Comfortable Recovery Space: You’ll want to rest after your procedure, so set up a comfortable recovery space at home. Have plenty of pillows to prop yourself up, as keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling. Also, keep ice packs nearby to help with discomfort and swelling.
Plan for Post-Surgery Care: Your dentist or surgeon will give you detailed instructions for post-surgery care. This may include advice on taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain activities (like drinking through a straw), and how to care for your mouth to prevent infection. Be sure to follow these instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery.
Prepare for Swelling and Discomfort: Swelling and discomfort are common after wisdom tooth removal. This typically peaks within the first 48 hours and should gradually subside. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage the pain. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both smoking and drinking alcohol can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection. It’s important to avoid both for at least a few days after your surgery.
Take It Easy: After your surgery, it’s important to take it easy. You’ll need a few days to rest and recover, so avoid strenuous activities, exercise, or anything that could increase blood flow to your mouth, which could cause additional swelling or bleeding.
Final Thoughts
Getting your wisdom teeth removed can sound a little intimidating, but with the right preparation, the process will be much smoother. By following these steps and working closely with your dentist or oral surgeon, you can ensure a successful procedure and a quick recovery.
At BluSky Dental, we’re here to make your wisdom tooth removal as comfortable as possible. If you’re ready to take the next step and get those wisdom teeth taken care of, book an appointment today. Your smile (and your health) will thank you!