So it’s time for your wisdom teeth removal. Don’t worry! This dental procedure is a common one, and if a dentist has recommended it for you, getting it done could spare you from some serious future complications. Here’s what you need to know about the treatment:
Why Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed
It may seem like everyone you know has had their wisdom teeth removed, but it’s actually not a necessity. Plenty of people have wisdom teeth that either never come in or come in just fine. Wisdom teeth extraction is only needed if the way the teeth are erupting will lead to some issues.
One common issue is if your wisdom teeth are coming in at an angle, or there isn’t enough space in your mouth, and it’s shifting the alignment of your teeth. This could lead to crowding, discomfort, or tooth damage, and it may even require orthodontic treatment to correct. Another common issue is if the wisdom teeth are impacted, which means they aren’t able to erupt completely through the tissue. This could result in a gum inflammation, an infection, or an abscess.
What the Procedure Is Like
Wisdom teeth removal is a straightforward process. Before any work is done, your dentist will perform the necessary diagnostics and plan your treatment based on the position of your wisdom teeth. They’ll also factor in your medical and health history. Your tooth extraction will either be “simple” if the tooth is visible, or “surgical” if it hasn’t erupted fully or is broken.
On the day of your treatment, you’ll be administered the proper anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure, as well as any sedation if that has been arranged. Then, your dentist will remove the tooth and close the treatment site. The whole procedure only takes around 45 minutes to an hour and a half on average. You’ll be given post-op instructions, such as what you can eat and what you should avoid, to ensure you have a speedy recovery.
Need to schedule wisdom teeth removal? Or maybe you think you might need the treatment? Contact Hooks Family Dentistry! We provide wisdom teeth removal and would be happy to help.
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