Wisdom teeth removal is a standard procedure that oral surgeons perform. While wisdom teeth are not necessary for chewing or speaking, they can cause several problems if they become impacted or infected. Wisdom teeth removal is typically recommended to prevent these issues from occurring.
There are a few reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be removed. One reason is that they may be impacted, which means they grow at an angle and cannot erupt through the gum line. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to the surrounding teeth. Another reason to remove wisdom teeth is that they may crowd or damage other teeth.
What Does a Wisdom Tooth Removal Entail?
Wisdom tooth removal is typically performed by an oral surgeon, and it is usually done under local anesthesia. The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and the recovery period is typically a few days. During the procedure, the oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the wisdom tooth. The tooth will then be removed, and the incision will be closed with stitches.
What About the Wisdom Tooth Removal Aftercare?
After your wisdom tooth removal surgery, it is important to take care of yourself and your mouth. Here are some tips for wisdom tooth removal aftercare:
- Take it easy for the first 24 hours. Avoid strenuous activity and exercise.
- Rest with your head elevated. This will help to reduce swelling.
- Apply ice to your face for 20 minutes at a time. This will also help to reduce swelling.
- Take pain medication as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. This will help to keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoid drinking alcohol, using tobacco products, and eating hard or crunchy foods. These can all irritate your surgical site and delay healing.
- Brush your teeth gently. Be careful not to irritate your surgical site.
- Follow up with your dentist or oral surgeon as directed.
If you take care of yourself and your mouth after wisdom tooth removal surgery, you will heal quickly and without complications.
How Long Should You Use a Gauze After Your Wisdom Tooth Removal?
It is essential to use a gauze after your wisdom tooth removal surgery to help with the healing process. The gauze will help to absorb any blood that may seep from the surgery site, so be sure to keep it in place for 30 to 45 minutes after the procedure.
It’s also important to change the gauze regularly, at least every few hours, to ensure that the area is clean and to prevent infection. For the most part, you can keep the gauze for another hour until the bleeding stops completely, but you can repeat the process if the bleeding persists. However, if the bleeding starts to concern you, it’s best to consult with your dentist.
The Bottom Line: Ensuring a Smooth-Sailing Recovery After a Wisdom Tooth Removal
Having your wisdom teeth removed can be a daunting experience, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can ensure a smooth and easy recovery.
If you’re looking for a great dentist in the Framingham area, look no further than Comfort Dental of Framingham. We offer a wide range of dental services, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry. We also offer emergency dental care for patients who need it. No matter what your dental needs are, we can help.
