Wisdom Teeth Removal and Aftercare

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop, usually at around age 17. For some people, wisdom teeth can cause problems like infections or cysts. If your dentist recommends that you have them removed, there are a few things to know about the procedure, post-op care, and recovery time.

Wisdom Teeth Removal and Aftercare Fort Worth & Arlington

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The wisdom teeth extraction procedure will depend on the position of your wisdom teeth, whether they are erupted or impacted, and the position of the tooth roots. 

Impacted wisdom teeth are usually removed by cutting out a section of the tooth and bone where it has grown into tissue giving access to the tooth root. The tooth may then be divided into sections, loosened, and removed in pieces. You may also need stitches after the procedure is done if the surgeon decides that the patient will heal better by the addition of stitches to close the area. 

You’ll be under some form of anesthesia like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or intravenous sedation during this period. The sedation that you receive will be decided by your surgeon based on your comfort level, the number, and the complexity of the extractions required.

As you slowly emerge from the effects of anesthesia, you may still feel mild nausea and dizziness. It is important that you get a ride back home. 

After the extraction, special measures must be taken to protect the oral tissues during the healing process. A gauze is provided to bite down on for some time as it helps with the process of blood clotting in the area.  Once you are in a stable condition, which is typically within the hour, you will be discharged home. 

Recovery following the surgery is usually uncomplicated. However, some swelling and discomfort are to be expected, and you may not be able to fully open your mouth for a few days. Pain medication can help with comfortable recovery. 

You may have to use wet gauze at regular intervals to aid with the healing at home—plan on eating semi-solid or soft food for this period. 

Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any symptoms of concern, such as radiating pain from the socket, foul smell or bad taste in the mouth, or heavy bleeding.

Refer to our Surgical Instructions page for detailed care instructions before and after an oral surgery. 

You can’t prevent an impact, but keeping regular dental appointments for cleaning, X-rays, and checkups enables your dentist to monitor the growth and emergence of your wisdom teeth and help before the symptoms develop.

Give us a call today at 817-927-1818 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment. You’ll be happy you chose Facial & Cosmetic Surgery Fort Worth for your oral surgery needs.

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