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 in 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 be 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.

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 could 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 recommendation of the Doctor will be made based on the ‘clinical’ findings in your particular case after examination.

The Doctor will also discuss sedation options available for such procedure based on you needs and medical history. This is the time for you to be upfront with your medical history so we may provide you with the best care possible. Your questions are very welcome so we make sure you understand the procedure you are about to have done.

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 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. The dentist will prescribe you pain medication, so if needed, take it 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.

• 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 us for a follow-up.