Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth are removed as preventive measures as well as to correct current problems. If the dentist sees that the tooth is already impacted or it might be problematic in the future, he will most likely recommend for it to be extracted. Even wisdom teeth that have grown in properly are subject to issues such as an infection from bacteria trapped between the tooth and jaw where it is very difficult to brush. If infections become frequent, it is generally a good idea to have the tooth removed as it can cause medical danger. If the wisdom tooth interferes with the tongue, it will need to be removed as the pain will numb the tongue. Also, anyone who has been orthodontic ally treated is recommended to have the teeth removed as the addition could disrupt the alignment.

Wisdom teeth should only be removed by experienced dental professionals. A panoramic x-ray is the best technology the industry currently has for viewing wisdom teeth and diagnosing problems.

There are several problems which can occur after the removal of wisdom teeth. Some are natural and cannot be avoided, and others the patient has control over. The patient should follow all instructions given by the surgeon diligently. Failure to do so could result in problems ranging from a dry socket to a life-threatening infection.

The wounds will bleed and ooze for up to three days after the surgery. One should refrain from rinsing their mouth as blood clots need to form and rinsing could dislodge the clots. After 24 hours past the surgery, it is good to rinse with lukewarm saltwater. This is to be done every 2 hours until the swelling reduces. The rinse should be applied every 4-6 hours for a week after. Gauze should be placed over the wounds to help stop the bleeding. The bleeding should decrease gradually. If it does not noticeably decline within a day, the surgeon should be contacted. In place of the gauze, a wet tea bag can be used as tannic acid will help to minimize the bleeding. An offensive smell can result from the blood clot along with a foul tasting fluid from the wounds. These will diminish after a week or two.

Dry sockets are caused by a blood clot falling out or failing to form. The surgeon will give advice as to how to avoid these. Painful swelling is to be expected, and is a sign that the body is healing naturally. However, the swelling should begin to reduce after it peaks. If this does not occur, the surgeon needs to be contacted.