It’s common to feel nervous about wisdom teeth removal, often due to exaggerated stories or horror tales shared online. However, understanding the procedure and what to expect can help ease your fears and provide a clearer perspective.
Common Wisdom Teeth Extraction Fears
- Pain & Anesthesia
Wisdom teeth extractions are routine procedures performed by experienced oral surgeons. Most oral surgeons carry out an average of one extraction per day, gaining extensive expertise. To ensure you feel no pain during the surgery, anesthesia will be administered. This could be general anesthesia or nitrous oxide (laughing gas). You won’t feel any pain, and you likely won’t remember the procedure after it’s done. - Bleeding
A common concern is the bleeding that occurs after surgery. While there will be some bleeding from the extraction site, it’s manageable and will stop by following after-care instructions. You’ll be advised to gently bite on gauze and change it frequently. Propping your head up will also help control bleeding. - Swelling
Swelling is another feared side effect of wisdom teeth removal. While it may seem alarming, it’s typically short-lived, lasting just a few days. Applying ice packs to the outside of your cheeks during the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling significantly.
Smooth Recovery Tips
The recovery process is usually straightforward if you follow your oral surgeon’s instructions. Consider the following tips to ensure optimal healing:
- Have a Driver: It’s important to have someone drive you to and from the appointment as anesthesia may leave you feeling drowsy.
- Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid irritating the extraction site.
- Avoid Straws and Touching the Area: Using straws can disrupt blood clots and delay healing, while touching the area with your fingers or tongue can introduce bacteria.
- Don’t Smoke: Refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours after the surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Conclusion
Though there are risks with any surgery, wisdom teeth extractions are typically successful with minimal complications. Following your oral surgeon’s advice will help you recover quickly, often within just a few days to a week. The benefits of having the surgery early far outweigh the risks of ignoring the issue.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Charlottesville dental office.
