What can I expect from my wisdom teeth surgery?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come in, most commonly between the ages of 17 – 25 years. Because of the process of evolution in humans, our jaw sizes no longer accommodate for all our wisdom teeth in some cases. When this happens, it can cause serious gum disease and terrible pain, and in this case, the removal of the teeth are necessary.

For many people, surgery is a word that can cause a lot of anxiety and fear, however, the removal of wisdom teeth surgery is a simple procedure and nothing to be afraid of.  Here is all you need to know about wisdom teeth surgery.

How to Prepare for your surgery?

During a check-up with your dentist, a panoramic x ray can be taken to understand the position of the wisdom teeth and whether or not a removal is necessary.

If your wisdom teeth do need removing and it is usually a simple procedure, your surgery will be usually be done with your dentist and no preparation will be needed apart from the x-rays at your dentist check-up to determine what needs to be done.  In some cases, the wisdom teeth may be stuck under the gum or placed on a nerve, which means your dentist will refer you to a specialist at your nearest hospital to take care of the surgery for you. Depending on whether you are put under general anaesthetic, you may have to fast. Prior to the procedure your specialist will contact you to advise you of any necessary preparation

What happens during it?

The process is quite simple and usually only takes from 30-60 minutes. First, the dentist will use local anaesthetic to numb the area. Then, a small cut will be made into the gum in order to have access to the tooth. After removing the tooth, the wound will be closed with stitches and covered with gauze.

Following your procedure, you are able to go home shortly after if its at the dentist, or if it is more complicated and done at hospital, you may have a slightly longer recovery and have the option to stay over night as they put you under general anaesthetic. Either way, it is important to have someone you trust to take you home after, as it is not advisable to drive following the procedure.

What is the Recovery Time?

After the surgery, you may experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses. You may also experience some swelling and difficult opening your mouth for a week or so. Because of this pain and discomfort that can be caused, it is advised to only eat soft foods and stay away from hot liquids and foods for about a week.

Most people can go back to their everyday routine after a few days, but it takes about 6 weeks for the mouth to fully recover. In order to have a speedy and successful recovery, rest the first few takes post-surgery, avoid physical activities, take care when brushing your teeth and avoid the operated spot.

The dental team at Ethical Dental will give you all the instructions and information you need to prepare you before, during and after the surgery, so there is nothing to worry about!

To book a consultation with Dr Kate Amos or Dr Sam Rosehill at Ethical Dental call 6652 3185 or book online.

To learn more about your wisdom teeth check out our articles 'Impacted Wisdom Teeth: What to do?' and 'Wisdom Teeth: Blessing or Burden?'.