Extractions
Extractions
Wisdom teeth extractions are a fairly common procedure. Wisdom teeth often
cause problems as they are trying to protrude through the gums. When a
wisdom tooth is impacted, it means the tooth is coming out at an angle
and not straight through the gum line. This can cause pain, the tooth can
come in unevenly or the tooth may only emerge partially.
When a wisdom tooth only emerges partially, a flap of skin called an
operculum, may form over the tooth. This can make the tooth hard to clean
and pieces of food may get caught under the skin. This makes it easy
for an infection, called pericoronitis, to develop. It will usually go away
on its own, but it causes swelling and pain in the area.
Impacted teeth and wisdom teeth can potentially cause problems such
as infections, need to be removed. Extractions can range from a single
tooth to removing all four wisdom teeth at once. Based on the preference of
the doctor and/or the patient, a local anesthetic may be used to numb
the areas where the teeth will be extracted. Others will prefer to go under
a general anesthetic so that they will be sedated during the procedure.
The gum tissue around the wisdom tooth is cut open to reveal the tooth. The
tooth is loosened by forceps gripping it tightly and wiggling it back and
forth until it can be lifted out of the gums. Sometimes a tooth may be
impacted so tightly that it cannot be simply lifted out of the gums. In
cases like this, the tooth will be broken up into pieces first before being
removed. Depending on the incision and extraction site, sutures may be
needed to close the area. Soluble sutures are the best option, which will
dissolve on their own.
After the surgery you will need to rest. You need to be driven home by a
friend or family member because of the anesthesia. You can expect for the
extraction site to bleed for a little while after the surgery. Gauze will be
applied at the completion of the surgery, and you will need to change it
when it becomes soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you
should call your dentist. Rest when you return home, but do not lie flat.
This could prolong the bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow when lying
down. Your dentist will prescribe you pain medication, so if you become sore
take as directed. You can also use an ice pack for the pain. Your dentist
might also provide you with a cleaning solution to clean the extraction
site.
You will be limited to soft foods for a few days after your surgery. Some
recommended foods are:
- Gelatin
- Pudding
- Yogurt
- Mashed Potatoes
- Ice Cream
- Thin Soups
- ...and other food you can eat without chewing.
When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw. The sucking motion can
loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. The same goes for
smoking. If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or don't feel
that the extraction site is healing properly call your dentist for a follow
up.
Post-Operative Instructions Continued Below