Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to grow in the back of your mouth. They usually appear while you are in your late teens or early twenties. Some people have no difficulties with their wisdom teeth, while others experience pain, infection, or other issues. To avoid future problems, many people in Lakeland, Fl, decide to have their wisdom tooth extraction.
We are here to answer the question: Is wisdom tooth extraction necessary? Here’s what you should know about the procedure and how to care for your teeth afterward.
Why Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Many people are unsure if they should have their wisdom teeth removed. It actually depends on your specific situation. Some people’s wisdom teeth grow just perfectly and do not require removal. But for others, impacted wisdom teeth may cause several issues.
When there is not enough space for wisdom teeth to grow, they become impacted. This may cause issues such as:
- Pain and swelling: When wisdom teeth push against nearby teeth or bone, it may be uncomfortable or even painful.
- Infection: When wisdom teeth do not fully emerge, food and germs can become stuck around them. That can lead to infection.
- Damage to nearby teeth: Wisdom tooth crowding may push other teeth out of position or even cause cavities.
- Cyst formation: In rare situations, cysts can grow around impacted wisdom teeth. These cysts can cause issues and possibly harm the jawbone.
Because of these potential issues, an oral surgeon or dentist in Lakeland, FL might suggest that you have your wisdom teeth extracted. This helps to maintain your dental health in the long term.
What to Expect During the Tooth Extraction Procedure?
A wisdom tooth extraction procedure varies depending on whether the tooth is fully erupted or impacted. Here is what happens throughout the procedure:
1. Consultation with Your Dentist or Oral Surgeon
Before your dental surgery in Lakeland, you will meet with your dentist or oral surgeon to go over the procedure. During regular checkups, your dentist will examine your wisdom teeth and take X-rays to see their position. This allows your dentist to determine whether the teeth are affected or can be safely removed.
2. Anesthesia Options
Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss your anesthesia options with you on the day of the procedure. In most situations, there are three choices:
- Local anesthesia: While you are conscious, it numbs the area around your wisdom teeth.
- Sedation anesthesia: You will be given a light sedative to help you relax throughout the procedure.
- General anesthesia: For more complicated extractions, you may be fully asleep so that you do not feel anything during the procedure.
3. The Extraction Procedure
Once you are anesthetized and comfortable, your oral surgeon in Lakeland will begin the procedure. For surgical tooth removal, the surgeon may need to create a small cut in your gum. They may also need to remove a small amount of bone to get the tooth. If the tooth is impacted, the surgeon may need to break it down into smaller pieces to remove it easily. After removal, your dentist will clean and stitch the wound if it requires.
4. Post-Procedure Care
When the treatment is complete, your dental surgeon will explain how to care for your wisdom teeth. That might involve:
- Pain management: You may use over-the-counter or prescription pain medication to relieve any discomfort.
- Swelling: Using cold packs can help minimize swelling in the first 24 hours.
- Diet changes: It is best to eat soft foods for the first few days.
- Oral hygiene: To avoid infection, you may rinse with salt water or a prescription mouthwash.
Risks of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Having a wisdom tooth extraction, like any other surgical procedure, carries risks. Even if it does not happen often, a few issues may arise, such as:
- Infection: If bacteria enter the wound, they can cause an infection.
- Dry socket: This painful condition happens when the blood clot that forms during the extraction is removed. When this happens, the bone might become exposed, causing pain.
- Nerve injury: In some cases, nerves near the wisdom teeth may be damaged. This might result in numbness or tingling in the tongue, lips, and chin. Usually, this feeling is very temporary.
Be sure that you follow all post-surgical instructions. This will help to reduce risks and make the recovery process easier.
When Should You Consider Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Now that we have gone over the procedure, let us discuss when you might need to have your teeth removed in Lakeland. If you have any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consult an oral surgeon in Lakeland for a check-up:
- You feel pain or soreness in the back of your mouth.
- Swelling or redness in the gums and jaw area.
- Having trouble fully opening your mouth.
- Your mouth is always getting infected.
- Cavities or damage to teeth near your wisdom teeth.
If your wisdom teeth are causing any of these issues, having them properly removed will help avoid further issues.
Aftercare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Proper aftercare is important following your dental surgery in Lakeland. It helps you avoid issues and recover faster. Here are some suggestions to follow:
1. Manage Pain and Swelling
As we said before, pain management is crucial after wisdom tooth removal. You can use prescription painkillers or over-the-counter medications when advised by your dentist. Applying ice packs to your cheeks can also help reduce swelling.
2. Avoid Certain Activities
Avoid activities such as sucking straws and smoking for the first few days. These actions may dislodge the blood clot and lead to a dry socket.
3. Eat Soft Foods
For the first several days, eat soft things like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. It prevents the surgical site from becoming irritated.
4. Maintain Oral Hygiene
For a few days, avoid brushing directly at the extraction site. But it is still necessary to keep the rest of your mouth clean. To help avoid infection, rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
5. Follow-Up Appointments
Your dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to check your healing progress. This is also a great chance to ask any questions about your recovery and ensure that everything is progressing smoothly.
Choosing the Right Dentist or Oral Surgeon in Lakeland, FL
When it comes to wisdom tooth extraction in Lakeland, FL, selecting the right professional is absolutely important. Look for a dentist in Lakeland, FL, or an oral surgeon who has experience in wisdom tooth extractions.
Ensure that they have an excellent track record of providing safe and effective care. You may ask friends and relatives for recommendations or read online reviews. It is also beneficial to speak with a few professionals to see who is the best fit for your needs.
Why Choose Northside Family Dental?
At Northside Family Dental, we help our Lakeland, Florida, patients achieve bright and confident smiles. If you feel self-conscious about your smile, we’re always here to help. Our friendly team knows exactly how to restore your smile with dentures, dental implants, tooth whitening, fillings, and more. Let’s bring back your best smile.
Book a Consultation Today
If your wisdom tooth extraction is causing you discomfort or issues, do not delay. Having them removed may help you avoid more issues and maintain good dental health. You can schedule a consultation with a skilled oral surgeon or dentist in Lakeland, FL, to discuss your choices. They can help you decide on the best course of action for your specific situation.