In this two-part article series we will be discussing wisdom teeth: What are they? Why do they frequently need to be removed? What can I expect during the extraction procedure?

Welcome back to the final installment of this two-part article series on wisdom teeth. In part one, we described what wisdom teeth are, the various problems they may cause and how they are removed. In this section, we will be discussing with more detail what you may expect from the removal procedure as well as the healing process.

So, Just What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Most of us are wary of visiting our local dentist, especially when it comes to the terrifying prospect of having teeth pulled! Thankfully, as a friendly dentist in the Colorado Springs CO explains, before your wisdom teeth are pulled, your teeth and the surrounding tissue will be numbed with a local (in straightforward cases) or general anaesthetic (in more complex cases). In other words, you shouldn’t feel a thing!

In addition to preventing your physical pain, you and your dentist or oral surgeon may opt for the use of a sedative in order to prevent any anxiety you may experience. Herein are included various options, such as nitrous oxide (‘laughing gas’), an oral sedative, such as Valium or an intravenous sedative, administered through injection. The Pueblo dental community suggests that you arrange for a lift to and from your procedure should you undergo sedation as it impedes your ability to drive safely.

Now that you are anesthetised, your dentist/oral surgeon will begin the extraction procedure and remove your wisdom teeth according to the surgical plan discussed with you during your consultation exam. After your wisdom teeth have been removed, the speed of your recovery will depend on the level of complexity of the extraction procedure.

What you can expect During the First 24 Hours of Recovery?

Bleeding: It is normal to experience a little bleeding after a tooth/teeth extraction procedure; however if bleeding is excessive, it is a good idea to contact your dentist or oral surgeon. Try to avoid rinsing, spitting or ‘sucking’ actions for 24 hours after the procedure.

Swelling: You may experience some facial swelling in and around the area where the tooth was extracted. You can ease your swelling by administering cold pressure (ice wrapped in cloth) on the cheek.

Pain: After your anaesthesia has worn off, it is normal to experience a little post-operative discomfort and sensitivity. You will be sent home with prescription painkillers, which will help to keep you comfortable. You can ask your dentist or oral surgeon to prescribe you a more potent pain reliever if this is necessary.

Food: Colorado Springs dentists recommend that you stick to a very soft diet until the bleeding has completely stopped and your mouth is on its way to recovery. It is also never a good idea to mix alcohol and narcotic pain medication.

Brush: Continue brushing your teeth as normal, however within the first 24 hours try to avoid the area directly next to the extracted teeth. By day two you can resume gentle brushing of your teeth. It is also suggested to avoid commercial mouth rinses as they can cause irritability. Instead, use salt water to rinse your mouth.

A Few More Things to Know…

Complete healing will take a few weeks following the removal of your wisdom teeth. Your Pueblo dental healthcare professional will explain to you in detail what you can expect in your unique case. Having said this, it is typically within the first week that sufficient healing takes place for the use of your mouth to be reasonably comfortable. Once you are completely healed, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a much healthier, happier mouth!