Welcome to our blog, SDS Dental Clinic, where we are committed to providing you with useful information and guidance on oral health care. In this article, we will explore the process of wisdom tooth extraction, also known as "third molars," providing you with essential information on when this procedure is necessary, how it is carried out, and how to take care of yourself afterward.
Why are wisdom tooth extractions necessary?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, grow behind the gums and are the last teeth to emerge. Most people have four of these molars, one in each corner of the mouth. These teeth typically appear in adolescence or early 20s when the other 28 permanent teeth are already present in the oral cavity. Due to limited space, it is often difficult for wisdom teeth to erupt properly.
When to consult a dentist
If your wisdom teeth cause severe pain, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with the dentist. They will conduct an examination and determine if extraction is necessary. Dental X-rays can provide a clearer image of the teeth's position and help make the optimal decision.
Why is wisdom tooth extraction recommended?
In cases where wisdom teeth are impacted or have not fully erupted through the gum surface, various dental problems may arise. These include dental caries, gum disease, soft tissue infections, cellulitis, abscesses, and, in rare cases, cysts or benign tumors. Extraction becomes a recommended option when other treatments have not successfully resolved these issues.
How the extraction procedure is carried out:
Initial consultation
Before extraction, the dentist will conduct a detailed consultation to assess your oral health. Here, they will discuss available options and provide you with information about the procedure itself.
Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area where the extraction will take place.
Extraction
The execution of wisdom tooth extraction at SDS Dental Clinic is the sole responsibility of our specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Anca Maria Ionescu. With meticulousness, Dr. Ionescu performs the wisdom tooth extraction, adapting to the individual needs of each patient. In certain circumstances, a minimal incision in the gum or fragmentation of the teeth into smaller sections may be necessary to facilitate the extraction procedure.
Recovery period
After extraction, you will be given specific instructions to ensure effective recovery. It is important to follow these recommendations to prevent potential complications.
Possible complications
As with any surgical intervention, there are risks associated with wisdom tooth extraction. These include infections, delayed healing, "dry socket" (failure of blood clot formation at the extraction site), or even nerve injuries. It is essential to strictly follow postoperative instructions to minimize these risks.
Recovery and self-care:
The recovery period may last up to 2 weeks and may include swelling, mild bruising, and discomfort. It is important to follow the doctor's advice to manage pain and ensure proper recovery.
Self-care tips:
Use pain relievers as recommended (paracetamol or ibuprofen).
Avoid strenuous physical activities and use an extra pillow to support your head during sleep.
Avoid excessive mouth rinsing, smoking, consuming alcohol, and hard foods during the first 24 hours.
Follow a soft and liquid diet.
Follow recommendations to rinse the extracted area with an antiseptic after 24 hours.
Returning to normal:
After swelling and bruising have subsided, you can return to your normal oral care routine. You may need to schedule a follow-up appointment approximately one week later to remove any remaining stitches.
Conclusion:
At SDS Dental Clinic in Vilafranca del Penedès, we are here to offer high-quality dental services, including wisdom tooth extraction.
Our team of professionals will carefully guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your experience is as comfortable and safe as possible.
If you have any additional questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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