When Wisdom Teeth Extraction Is Recommended

Not everyone has to have their wisdom teeth removed, but it is commonly recommended for a number of reasons, including:

  • Crowding: Your mouth may not be big enough for wisdom teeth. This can lead to crooked teeth in the front of the mouth that may require orthodontics to correct.
  • Impaction: One or more wisdom teeth hit other teeth as they come in. They may emerge partly or not at all, and can damage neighboring teeth.
  • Hygiene: Wisdom teeth can be hard to clean. Cavities and gum disease then develop around the wisdom teeth and neighboring teeth.
  • Protecting Prior Orthodontic Treatment: Adolescents may benefit from wisdom teeth extraction to prevent relapse of orthodontic problems once wisdom teeth erupt.

It’s often easy to predict when your wisdom teeth will become problematic long before the teeth are mature and emerge. In this case, we might recommend early extraction. This is beneficial because the root of the wisdom tooth hasn’t fully formed yet, which means the wisdom teeth extraction process will be less involved, making for an easier procedure and a quicker recovery.

Normal Recovery from Wisdom Tooth Extraction

After your wisdom tooth extraction, most people recover quickly. For the first day following the procedure, you’ll need to rest. Avoid strenuous physical activity, as it could increase bleeding and discomfort. Mild discomfort is common as the anesthesia wears off, but this can be managed with prescribed medication.

By the following day, light activity, including returning to work, is typically fine as long as you’re not experiencing significant discomfort. Within two to three days, most individuals can return to their regular routine without any major issues.

Possible Complications That Could Delay Recovery

Though most patients experience a smooth recovery, complications can occur. If they do, they may include:

  • Excessive discomfort: Pain beyond the typical recovery period may hinder your ability to resume normal activities.
  • Swelling: Swelling is common and might make you feel self-conscious or interfere with your ability to speak and eat.
  • Dislodging the blood clot: The blood clot that forms in the extraction socket is crucial for healing. If it becomes dislodged, it could lead to increased pain and delay recovery.

How to Minimize the Risk of Complications After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

To ensure a smooth recovery and reduce the risk of complications, follow these simple tips:

  • Avoid brushing the area around the extraction site: While you can brush your front teeth, avoid brushing near the extraction site to protect the blood clot.
    Use ice packs: Apply ice to your face for 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute breaks in between, to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
    Eat soft foods: Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days to avoid irritating the surgical sites.
    Avoid straws: The suction from a straw can dislodge the blood clot and increase the risk of complications.
    Take it easy: Refrain from strenuous exercise for about a week, as it can raise your blood pressure and dislodge the clot.

Scheduling Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If you need a wisdom tooth extraction, it’s best to schedule it with enough time to recover before any important events. Although most people recover quickly, complications can arise, so give yourself time to heal. If you’re unsure whether an extraction is right for you, please contact Firouzian Dentistry at (614) 848-5001 to schedule a consultation.