Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Finding out that it’s time to have your wisdom teeth removed is intimidating to many patients. What happens during the procedure? Will you feel anything? How long will your recovery last?

It’s understandable to have several questions running through your mind at once. Obtaining answers to these questions eases tension and helps you feel more comfortable undergoing oral surgery.

Why do you need your wisdom teeth taken out?

Wisdom teeth were once functional and acted as an extra set of teeth that would help ancient humans chew. As food preparation methods evolved, however, the jaw bone became smaller and wisdom teeth became obsolete.

Today, many patients find that their jaw does have enough room for wisdom teeth to grow, prompting them to have their teeth removed. Without a proper extraction, wisdom teeth upset the alignment of existing teeth and create issues with your bite.

When is the best time to have your wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth usually erupt between the ages of 17-25, which is when most patients choose to have them removed. A dentist or oral surgeon determines whether wisdom teeth extraction is necessary during an examination.

Can I see my general dentist for a wisdom teeth extraction?

Although your general dentist may be able to diagnose your condition, they may not be qualified to perform surgery. Your general dentist will refer you to a trusted oral surgeon, like Dr. Patel, to have your wisdom teeth extracted. Oral surgeons are the recommended specialists to have wisdom teeth removed, on the chance that teeth have not fully erupted, or are impacting the health of surrounding teeth.

How long do you have to wear gauze after the teeth are removed?

Patients experience bleeding from extraction sites for one or two days after surgery, and it’s important that you use gauze to absorb it. It's recommended that you apply gauze every 60 minutes and replace it when the material is soaked through. Continue to replace your gauze until all bleeding stops.

How long does it take for the sedation to wear off?

Depending on the type of sedation you receive, it could wear off immediately or it could take several minutes to an hour. With most wisdom teeth extractions, however, you can expect to return home the same day although you may feel loopy or drowsy after the procedure.

To ensure your safety after your surgery, you are required to have a friend or family member drive you to and from your surgery and accommodate you during the first few hours of your recovery.

What form of sedation should I use for wisdom teeth extraction?

The form of sedation you use depends on the severity of your case as well as your weight and general health. Your oral surgeon will suggest the best sedation method for your particular case.

Typically, patients receive a combination of, IV sedation or nitrous oxide, which will leave you in a twilight state during surgery. Each form of sedation keeps you from feeling any discomfort, and you shouldn’t remember anything about the procedure.

Learn More by Scheduling an Appointment!

At Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, we leave no question unanswered. If there is more that you’d like to know about wisdom teeth extraction, contact our office at 703-436-4633 and schedule an appointment.