If you have been suffering from growing discomfort at the back of your jaw, then it is highly likely that wisdom teeth are coming through, which means ongoing pressure is being applied to your gums. Left unchecked, this can turn to considerable pain so your dentist may well recommend wisdom teeth removal as the best option. This can worry some patients, especially those who have otherwise healthy teeth who might never have had any taken out before. Therefore, it is worth acquainting yourself about what this relatively common procedure involves. What can you expect when your wisdom teeth are removed?

Before the Procedure

To begin with, your dentist may want to take out one wisdom tooth or all four depending on how many are pushing through. Most people will need a procedure like this in their young adulthood but it may affect you later so don't be surprised if that is the case for you. Initially, an x-ray will be required to establish how many teeth will need to come out. Although many wisdom teeth are pulled simply because they are causing pain in an overcrowded mouth, yours may have developed cavities or even cysts. In such cases, a course of antibiotics along with mouthwashes may be tried before their removal.

Removing Wisdom Teeth

Most usually, wisdom teeth removal is conducted under a local anaesthetic. Only if there is a known likely complication will you be put under completely, often in a hospital setting. Once you have been injected with a painkiller your dentist will make a small incision in your gum which will help to free up the tooth from its anchor point. You won't be able to feel this. Then the dentist will get hold of the tooth using a dental implement and pull it out. Due to the nature of these teeth, this process is not always fast.

After Your Wisdom Tooth Removal

It is common to feel swelling or even bruising on your gum once the tooth has been removed. You may experience some discomfort when the anaesthetic wears off but this can usually be controlled well enough with over-the-counter painkillers. Avoid sticking your tongue into the affected area too much and it will soon heal. Some people get infections after wisdom teeth removal. Avoiding smoking and consuming sugary drinks will help to minimise this risk a great deal. Another good idea is to rinse with mouthwash after every meal since this will help to kill off any unwanted oral bacteria.

For more information about wisdom teeth removal, contact your dentist.

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