Pain-Free Wisdom Teeth Extraction at West Coast Dental of French Valley
Providing affordable Wisdom Teeth Extraction for French Valley, Winchester, Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, and surrounding areas. Call us at 951-325-6976 to schedule your appointment today!
Is it time to remove your wisdom teeth?
If your dentist has recommended wisdom teeth removal, you’ll likely be referred to an oral surgeon who will perform the procedure in their office. The recovery period is typically just a few days, allowing you to get back to your normal routine quickly.
Why remove wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of your mouth. These teeth usually emerge between the ages of 16 and 25 and are often identified through X-rays. Common reasons for removal include:
- Impaction: Wisdom teeth can become trapped in your jawbone or gums, causing pain due to their position at the back of the mouth. This led to a chronic infection in the area.
- Incorrect Angle: They might press against other teeth if they come in at an awkward angle.
- Lack of Space: Your jaw may not have enough room to accommodate an extra set of molars.
- Cavities or Gum Disease: Difficulty in cleaning these hard-to-reach teeth can lead to dental issues.
Before Surgery
You’ll meet with the oral surgeon to discuss the procedure. During this appointment, make sure to:
- Discuss any health issues you have.
- Provide a list of medications you take regularly.
- Ask any questions you have about the surgery.
- Talk about anesthesia options—whether you’ll be numbed or asleep during the procedure.
- Plan for time off work or school and arrange for childcare, pet care, or a ride home if necessary.
During Surgery
The surgery typically takes 45 minutes or less. To ensure you don’t feel pain, you’ll receive one of the following types of anesthesia:
- Local Anesthesia: Your mouth will be numbed with a local anesthetic like novocaine or lidocaine. You might also inhale nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax. You’ll feel alert shortly after the procedure.
- IV Sedation: Along with numbing your mouth, the surgeon will administer drugs through a vein to make you drowsy. You may sleep through the entire procedure.
- General Anesthesia: You’ll receive drugs through a vein or inhale gas through a mask, keeping you asleep during the surgery. You may not wake up for an hour or so afterward.
If necessary, the surgeon will cut your gums or bone to remove the teeth and then stitch the wounds to promote quick healing. These stitches usually dissolve within a few days. Gauze pads might be placed in your mouth to absorb any blood.
After Surgery
Your response to anesthesia will determine how soon you can resume activities. If you had a local anesthetic, you might be able to drive home and return to your routine. However, if you received general anesthesia, someone else should drive you home.
Most people experience little to no pain post-surgery but may have swelling and mild discomfort for about three days. Complete healing might take a few weeks.
Tips for recovery:
Dos
- Use an ice pack on your face to reduce swelling or skin color changes.
- Apply moist heat for a sore jaw.
- Gently open and close your mouth to exercise your jaw.
- Eat soft foods like pasta, rice, or soup.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Brush your teeth starting the second day, but avoid brushing against any blood clots.
- Take prescribed medications to ease pain or swelling.
- Contact your doctor if you have a fever or if your pain or swelling doesn’t improve.
Don’ts
- Avoid drinking through a straw to prevent dislodging blood clots.
- Refrain from rinsing your mouth harshly; a gentle saltwater rinse is recommended. Do not spit
- Steer clear of hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate your wounds.
- Do not smoke, as it can dislodge blood clots which causes dry socket
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth can lead to dental issues like impaction and infections if not addressed. Early removal can help prevent these problems and reduce the need for additional surgeries. Consulting with an oral surgeon can determine whether early removal is necessary. With modern dental technology, wisdom teeth extraction is now more efficient and less painful. Don’t wait until complications arise—consider early wisdom teeth removal for better oral health
