Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars. They emerge between seventeen and twenty-one years old. Usually, this process is painful and annoying but if growing healthily, these teeth can be very useful. Generally, eating and speech are limited because of problems with wisdom teeth. If there’s pain, it can become intolerable and this requires extraction.
This happens because our jaws don’t have the room for those molars to grow. Overcrowding causes the molars to fail when emerging and they erupt at an angle. This is called impaction, which makes those teeth useless, and it causes problems for the rest of the teeth.
If ignored, this problem leads to further complications and more complex and costly dental treatments. Pericoronitis, which is an inflammation of gum tissue next to the emerging tooth, is caused by small food particles getting trapped in the area and bacteria. Other problems are jaw stiffness, headaches, congestions, sinus pain and pressure, cysts and cavities.
Therefore, scheduling an appointment with your dentist in NE Calgary as soon as you feel the first sign of molar eruption is the way to go. If wisdom teeth removal is the next step for you, there is no need to get anxious. It may sound like a scary experience, but the truth is that it’s a common procedure, almost routine for most dental professionals.
To have the best experience with wisdom teeth removal in NE Calgary, the best thing to do is prepare for the extraction.
How can I prepare for wisdom teeth extraction?
After scheduling an appointment at a dental clinic near you, the dentist evaluates if they can perform the procedure in their office or if you need to see a dental surgeon. This happens when the tooth is deeply impacted.
You should answer any questions you may have about your problem and upcoming procedure until you feel ready and well-informed. This will make you feel comfortable during the whole treatment.
Usually, wisdom teeth removal, as any tooth extraction near you, is performed as an outpatient procedure. It means that you will go home right after it’s performed. You won’t be able to drive home afterwards since it requires anesthesia. Ask for a friend or a family member to accompany you to the dental clinic.
Remember to avoid taking any food before the surgery to avoid vomiting, since you might need to be put under anesthesia. Let your dentist know of any current medication that you use to avoid any medication interactions.
It is important as part of your preparation to arrive early. Being on time will help you feel comfortable and relaxed before the surgery.
The recovery period after wisdom teeth extraction is generally fast. Resting for a few days encourages healing. Take any prescribed pain medicine and keep your head elevated with pillows when sleeping.
Avoid using straws while recovering because this causes a dry socket and releases the blood clot. It’s better if you stick to fluids and gradually add soft solid foods.
It’s important to slowly and gently open your mouth to avoid stiffness after the surgery. Create some mouth rinse out of warm water and salt. Rinse after drinking or eating to reduce the pain and swelling. Oral hygiene is important, but be careful when brushing your teeth. In case you start to bleed, you can control it by biting down on a gauze.
Drinking coconut water will help you recover from wisdom tooth extraction. It stabilizes blood chemistry and electrolytes, and it keeps your blood sugar stable until you can eat. This speeds up recovery, especially the first day.
Take things slowly, that’s the only way to go back to your normal life as soon as possible!