Wisdom tooth extractions are necessary for many people. In fact, Americans have a collective 10 million wisdom teeth removed each year. Still, the idea of the procedure can be frightening, and many people aren’t sure what to expect.
Here at Orange Premier Dental, our team of dental experts goes above and beyond to make sure you’re comfortable and informed throughout the wisdom tooth extraction process. No matter what your needs may be, we’re here for you.
Wisdom teeth are the four permanent adult teeth located in the back corners of the mouth on both the top and bottom jaws. They usually break through the gums between the ages of 17 and 25 but can be spotted on X-rays before then.
Some people’s wisdom teeth come in without issue, but other people require wisdom tooth extraction. Here are a few instances where the procedure may be necessary:
While most people have their wisdom teeth removed as children or young teens, it’s becoming increasingly common for adults to undergo wisdom tooth extraction surgery as well.
Depending on the location and condition of your wisdom teeth, they may be removed by a dentist or an oral surgeon. While dentists can usually manage simple extractions, you’ll likely be referred to an oral surgeon for more complex or surgical extractions.
Regardless of who extracts your wisdom teeth, here’s what you can expect from the process:
Once you’ve found out your wisdom teeth need to be removed, the initial consultation will cover questions you have about the surgery, what type of anesthesia you’ll be under, and what to expect from the recovery process. This consultation aims to help you understand the surgery and quell any fear you may have about it.
Surgery to remove wisdom teeth is fast and usually takes 45 minutes or less. To prepare for the surgery, your doctor or dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic. You may also get IV or general sedation to make you feel drowsy or put you to sleep for the procedure. The dentist or doctor will then remove the teeth and stitch any wounds in your gums.
Everyone responds differently to the surgery and the anesthesia. Still, it’s common to feel very sore for a few days after surgery. Your dentist will prescribe an over-the-counter or prescription pain medication to help manage discomfort and will likely recommend that you rest for a few days following the surgery.
While nobody looks forward to having their wisdom teeth removed, our team can help make it as quick and painless as possible. Come see us today and find out why we’re the Orange, CA, dentist your friends and neighbors choose.
