If you’re reading this, you might be gearing up for wisdom tooth removal, or maybe you’re researching for a friend or family member. Either way, it’s completely normal to have a few worries before your visit.
At the Family Dental Clinic, we’re committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. So, with that said, let’s walk you through what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Before the Procedure
Consultation and Preparation
Your journey starts with a consultation with one of our practitioners. During this visit, our dentists will examine your mouth and take X-rays to get a clear picture of your wisdom teeth and any potential issues that might alter the way we carry out the extraction – such as an infected wisdom tooth.
We’ll also talk about your medical history, any medications you’re taking and any allergies you might have. This is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have! We’re here to alleviate your concerns and dental anxiety.
Planning Ahead
It’s a good idea to plan for some down-time after your procedure. We also recommend arranging for someone to drive you home, as you might feel a little drowsy from the sedation.
During the Procedure
Sedation and Comfort
On the day of your extraction, we’ll make sure you’re completely comfortable. You’ll be given anaesthesia to make sure you don’t feel any pain. Depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level, this could range from local anaesthesia (numbing the area) to general anaesthesia (where you’ll be asleep during the procedure).
The Extraction
The actual extraction usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, though this can vary. If your wisdom teeth are impacted (trapped under the gums or bone), a small incision may be made to gently remove them. You might feel some pressure, but rest assured, you won’t feel pain.
After the Procedure
Immediate Aftercare
Once the procedure is complete, you’ll spend some time in our recovery area until the effects of the sedation wear off. We’ll provide you with gauze to bite down on, which helps control bleeding and encourages healing.
Managing Discomfort
It’s normal to experience some swelling and discomfort after the extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen will be your best friend here. Applying an ice pack to your cheek in 20-minute intervals can also reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
If necessary, we may prescribe stronger pain medication for more severe cases.
Diet and Hygiene
Stick to soft foods for the first few days and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Keep your mouth clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours. Avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, or brushing near the extraction site for the first few days to prevent irritation.
Follow-up and Healing
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to ensure your mouth is healing properly. Complete recovery usually takes about one to two weeks.
During this time, try to avoid smoking and strenuous activities, as these can hinder and prolong the healing process.
When to Call Us
While complications are rare, it’s important to know the signs of potential issues. Please contact us or a health care practitioner immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, fever, or any unusual symptoms.
We’re Here for You
At our family dental practice, your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We understand that dental procedures can be daunting, but we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have any concerns or need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Remember, getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common procedure, and most people recover without any issues. With proper care and our dedicated team by your side, you’ll be back to your normal routine before you know it!
For trusted wisdom tooth extraction you can rely on, click here or call 01243 771171 to schedule an appointment at our Chichester dental clinic.