What To Know About Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth pulled, but for those experiencing pain and discomfort, it is best to have them removed to prevent further issues. If you fall into the “need them removed” category, we’ve highlighted what you need to know about this procedure.

Why We Remove Them

Wisdom teeth are the last of your teeth to break through the gums at the very back of your mouth. Most people choose to have them extracted because they can cause pain and disruption. Wisdom teeth may grow in at unusual angles, which means they can crowd your other teeth. There’s also the issue of wisdom teeth not fully erupting or remaining completely hidden (or impacted) in the gums. This can create an opportunity for bacteria to grow, causing even more issues with infection, gum disease, or damage to other teeth, roots and bone support. It’s not always necessary to have wisdom teeth removed – they may be healthy, positioned correctly and fully grown in – but when they’re not, it’s worth exploring.. 

Managing Pain At Home

If wisdom teeth do lead to pain, and they aren’t quite at the point of surgery, managing discomfort until your operation will be a necessity. Home remedies to help with oral pain include:

• Numbing Gel: Numbing gels contain benzocaine, which helps reduce feeling in the gums. You can get these over the counter or online, but be sure to read the instructions for proper use.
• Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) reduce inflammation and can be used for effective pain management until you can receive treatment. This may be an easier option, as it’s widely available in stores and often already sitting in the medicine cabinet at home.
• Ice Pack: Applying an ice pack to your jaw not only reduces inflammation, but can act as a numbing agent to soothe pain. Simply wrap an ice pack in a tea towel and apply it to your jaw in increments of 15 minutes, with at least 15 minute breaks in between applications, until the pain subsides.
• Salt Water Rinse: If you’re after a quicker, more natural remedy, try out a salt water rinse. Many studies have shown that salt water has natural disinfectant properties and can help to reduce bacteria, meaning it can help treat infection and reduce inflammation. To concoct a salt water rinse, dissolve a few tablespoons of salt in freshly boiled water. Let the water cool slightly, swish the mix around in your mouth for a minute or two, then spit it out.
• Clove: Another natural remedy research has found effective is using whole cloves or clove oil as a topical treatment for tooth pain. To use a whole clove, place it over the affected tooth and close down without chewing. Leave the clove until the pain subsides. To use clove oil, put a few drops on cotton wool over the painful tooth and leave until the pain is reduced.

For more information on the above or more at-home remedies, click here!

The Extraction Procedure 

When it’s time for extraction, it’s important to feel safe and comfortable. At Perimeter Dental Group, we are dedicated to providing patients with a quick and seamless wisdom tooth extraction for minimal disruption and maximal comfort. Our team started performing these extractions when Dr. Matt joined the practice, and we’ve continued to evolve our practice as newer and safer techniques have been devised. With this procedure, we use safe sedation practices to numb the pain of surgery. Small cuts are then made in your gum to expose the wisdom teeth. From there, the teeth may be cut into smaller pieces for easier removal, then extracted altogether. The site of the incision is then cleaned of any debris from tooth or bone, and is stitched up to promote healing. Finally, we place gauze over the area to help control and stop any bleeding. 

Learn more about Wisdom Tooth Extraction at Perimeter Dental Group here!

Recovery

After the procedure and associated anesthesia, it is important to rest to give your body time to recover. Use an ice pack to help with swelling and inflammation as directed by your dentist. It may also be helpful to keep over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, handy to help with any pain you may feel in the days after surgery. Note that you may be given a prescription medicine after the surgery, so be sure to check with your dentist or oral surgeon before mixing any medications. It’s also essential to drink plenty of water and stay away from alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated or hot beverages for the first 24 hours after surgery. The same goes for food intake; you should only be consuming soft, mild foods for 24 hours after surgery before working your way up to semi-soft foods. Most importantly, clean your stitches and mouth as directed by your dentist to ensure proper healing and reduce chances of infection. 

Safe, Effective and Comfortable Extraction

Wisdom teeth extraction doesn’t have to be a scary, daunting task. At Perimeter Dental Group, our priority is to ensure patients have a safe, comfortable experience. From our initial consultation to the procedure and follow-ups, our team works with each patient to address any concerns and answer any questions. To learn more about the wisdom teeth extraction or to schedule your consultation, give us a call at 614-766-5277 or click the link below!