Wisdom Tooth Removal: The Process
ShareMany people develop wisdom teeth without any problems. However, if the eruption is causing alignment issues or pain, extracting the wisdom teeth will most likely be recommend. Wisdom tooth removal is a process, but it does not have to be physically or emotionally overwhelming. This guide and your dentist will prepare you for the removal of your wisdom teeth.
Sedation
Sedation ensures the extraction is not painful. Of course, there are many different options available.
In some instances, a local anesthetic that is injected directly into mouth may only be necessary. This will numb the entire mouth, reducing any discomfort you may feel during the extraction.
Oral sedation is also an option to consider. This involves taking an anti-anxiety medication before the procedure. Depending on the dosage, you may be asleep during the extraction.
Inhaling laughing gas is also common. Most dentists use an anti-anxiety medication in addition to the laughing gas.
Finally, general anesthesia may be recommended if your dentist feels the removal of all of your wisdom teeth will be more complicated than normal. General anesthesia is also a great solution if you have a dental phobia.
Incisions
Once your preferred method of sedation kicks in, your dentist will begin the extraction by making a few incisions in the gum tissue where the wisdom teeth are starting to erupt. If one or more of your wisdom teeth are impacted, a drill may be used to remove bone that has started to cover the tooth.
If the wisdom tooth has already pushed through your gums, cuts are made to disconnect the tissue from the actual tooth and underlying roots.
Extraction
The actual tooth is then moved gently in an attempt to loosen the roots from the socket.
Your dentist may also need to break apart the tooth if it is not coming loose from the socket. This may require removing the tooth in pieces, but it is still an effective method of extracting the wisdom tooth.
Suture
After removing the tooth, your dentist will suture up the gum tissue. Most dentists use stitches that dissolve after a period of time.
Proper care of the incision site is crucial for preventing painful dry sockets and the possible development of an infection. You should make sure to avoid excess contact to the incisions to ensure a blood clot forms and remains while you heal.
Removal of your wisdom teeth can be a safe and effective solution if you are dealing with pain or alignment issues because of these back teeth. Talk to a dental service today for more information on the process or to schedule your removal.