Wisdom tooth extraction is quite possibly one of the most dreaded dental procedures around, being as prepared as possible before and after the procedure may help to calm your nerves before you jump into the dentists chair and provide a better insight into a routine dental procedure.
We've provided a brief outline of the basics of removing wisdom tooth and outlined it below so you have a better understanding of what to expect during the procedure.
As a starting point, your dentist may use anesthesia, depending on the expected complexity of the wisdom tooth extraction - details of each of the three available are outlined below for your info.
You will get injections near the site of each extraction. Before you receive an injection, your gums will be numbed to ease any discomfort. You’ll be awake during the tooth extraction and may notice a slight tugging however you should not experience any pain.
Your dentist may sedate you through an IV line in your arm. Sedation suppresses your consciousness, which means you don’t feel any pain - just lay back and have a snooze.
In exceptional situations, general anesthesia may be administered. Whilst you are having a lovely rest, your surgical team will closely monitor your vital statics. You’ll experience no pain, be unconscious and have no memory of the procedure.
As you heal from your procedure there are a number of things to keep in mind to ensure the best healing following a wisdom tooth extraction.
Bleeding will occur the day after the procedure. Try to avoid spitting if you can so that you don’t dislodge the blood clot from the socket.
Be sure to stock up on over-the-counter pain relief such as Panadol or a prescription pain medication prescribed from your dentist to avoid any discomfort during the healing process.
Swelling of your cheeks usually improves in couple of days after the procedure whilst bruising may take several additional days.
You can resume normal activities the day after your procedure, but for at least a week avoid strenuous activity.
Eat soft foods for the first 24 hours. Avoid chewy, spicy or hard foods that might irritate the wound. Drink lots of water & avoid drinking alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated or hot beverages in the first 24 hours.
Don’t brush your teeth; rinse your mouth, spit during the first 24 hours after surgery. Start brushing your teeth approximately 24 hours after the procedure.
Avoid smoking for up to 72 hours after surgery where possible as it effects the healing process.
You may have stitches that dissolve within a few weeks or no stitches at all. If your stitches need to be removed, schedule an appointment with your dentist to have them taken out.
Call your dentist if you experience difficulty swallowing, severe pain, excessive bleeding, fever or swelling that worsens after two or three days. MGA Dental is available 7 days and offers emergency dental services when required on the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
MGA Dental offers a $59 wisdom teeth assessment for all patients looking for advice on wisdom tooth extraction. Our wisdom teeth assessment offer is valued at $130 and includes consultation and limited oral exam, diagnostic x- rays (if required), referral for a free full mouth x-ray (requires eligible Medicare Card) and additional consultation before the surgery. See more here.
To discuss your wisdom tooth extractions or for more information on our dental services speak with the experts from MGA Dental Gold Coast and Brisbane phone Gold Coast (07) 5539 9748 or Brisbane 07 3273 3343.
Visit our website to book your appointment online www.mgadental.com.au or email goldcoast@mgadental.com.au.
