Wisdom Teeth Removal: Know Before you Go
For older teens and young adults, removing your wisdom teeth has almost become a rite of passage. And if you’re not one of the lucky few born without wisdom teeth, you may feel a bit apprehensive and wondering what to expect. Let’s look at what you need to know before you go in for surgery so you can ease your mind and feel prepared!
By Dr. Stephanie Vera, DDS
Why Would My Dentist Recommend Removing my Wisdom Teeth?
Third molars, aka wisdom teeth, were used when our ancestors ate rough foods and needed “extra” teeth to replace damaged molars. As we have starting eating softer diets and the kind of vitamins and minerals we consume as changed, our jaw bones have gotten smaller, but our teeth haven’t. This usually means that our wisdom teeth don’t have the space to come in – when this is the case, they can be positioned at the wrong angle, they may only come out part of the way, the can be positioned where your toothbrush can’t reach, they can lead to painful infections and swelling of the gums, and they may cause gum disease or decay around the neighboring teeth.
In the simplest of terms, we remove wisdom teeth when they are causing problems, or are likely to lead to oral health complications. So, if you’re dentist has recommended you remove your wisdom teeth and you choose to skip or delay the procedure, you are likely to experience issues problems in the future. Waiting until you're in pain can make the procedure more difficult or harder to schedule on short notice. Don't worry, though – getting your wisdom teeth removed is a fairly common procedure and is nothing to be afraid of.
What if my Wisdom Teeth Never Come in?
Our wisdom teeth usually erupt between 17-22 years of age. If your third molar don’t come in and you leave them be, there’s a 25% chance that the cell lining around the tooth can become cancerous. This is one of the many reasons that you get your wisdom teeth out earlier, rather than later, in life – not to mention that our bodies heal faster when we are younger. That being said, sometimes wisdom teeth are positioned too close to important structures of our head and jaws and there may be risks associated with their removal. This is why it’s best to see a dentist for regular check-ups, so they can monitor your wisdom teeth and let you know if, or when, it is time to get them removed.
When is the Best Time to Remove my Wisdom Teeth?
It's best to remove your wisdom teeth before the roots are fully formed, as this can make the extraction more difficult. I also recommend scheduling the procedure when you can take time off – perhaps a Friday morning if you need to be back to your usual routine by Monday, or at the start of a school break. While it may take up to a week for you to feel back to normal, taking the time to rest and recover is important for a successful procedure.
What is the Procedure Like?
During the actual treatment, the area being worked on will be numbed. However, how awake you are during the procedure will depend on what type of sedation and anesthesia you choose. It's important to talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about your options, especially if you have dental anxiety or fear that needs to be managed. Some patients will opt for only local anesthetic to numb the area, some will do nitrous oxide, and others may require deeper sedation like an IV. Overall, the procedure will take about 45 minutes, but it can vary depending on the complexity of your case.
How Long Does it Take to Recover from Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Tooth extractions are surgery – although minor surgery – and your dentist is still removing a part of your body. Therefore, it is not only normal, but it should be expected to experience some soreness and swelling after the procedure. But don't worry, your dentist will provide you with prescriptions to help manage any post-op discomfort. Your recovery will depend on several factors, such as the type of anesthesia you choose, your age or if you have any underlying medical conditions, and how well you follow the post-op instructions.
How to Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Surgery
Before your appointment, make sure to follow all pre-op instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon. This means taking all of your normal medications unless specifically told not to, and knowing how much or when to eat. For some anesthesia, it's best to have an empty stomach while for others, it's best to have a light meal beforehand.
To maximize your comfort during the procedure, I would recommend wearing loose-fitting clothing. You may also want to bring a blanket and ear buds or headphones to help you relax. After surgery, you will likely need someone to drive you home. For at least the first 24 hours after treatment, you want to limit physical activity, stay hydrated, and eat soft foods like applesauce, yogurt, and pasta. As you feel comfortable, you can ease back into a normal diet and activity.
Although getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common procedure, dental professionals understand that many patients feel uneasy about the process. Remember, your dentist or oral surgeon is there to guide you on when to get it done and how to help make this experience as smooth as possible. Don't be afraid to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have. And, with a little preparation and patience, you’ll be back to your normal routine in no time!
Dr. Stephanie Vera is a general dentist practicing in Murphy, Texas. She is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry and believes education and prevention are essential to a happy, healthy smile.
