Newcastle Herald

How to prepare for wisdom teeth extraction

How to prepare for wisdom teeth extraction
How to prepare for wisdom teeth extraction

This is sponsored content for Dr Kristian van Mourik.

Wisdom teeth tend to appear when you're in your late teens. Many individuals will have their wisdom teeth erupt through normal means.

But, that might not be the case for everyone. Several people may develop impacted wisdom teeth. This condition won't erupt in the mouth and might appear partially or not at all. If you have this dental issue, then consider preparing for wisdom teeth extraction.

Here are four tips to help you prepare before this dental operation.

Know the need for the procedure

A toothache may not mean you need wisdom teeth extraction. Understand the need for the operation before you pay a visit to the dentist.

First, count the number of large teeth you find at the back of your mouth. You should see two wisdom teeth, also called molars growing around the age of 12. But, the period in which these teeth grow might differ for each person. Some individuals might not see their molars grow until the age of 17.

Attempt to put your finger behind the second molar. This step will help you check if your mouth has enough room for your wisdom teeth to grow.

Wisdom tooth extraction might be an ideal option if you feel curved tissue. But, take note that self-diagnosis might not be accurate. Consider going to the dentist or oral surgeon to help measure this area of the mouth.

Aside from impacted teeth, other signs you need your wisdom teeth extracted may include:

  • Inflamed gums
  • Sinus issues
  • Teeth and gum infection
  • Jaw pain and stiffness
  • Cavities
  • Cysts near molars

Ask the right questions

A consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon about wisdom teeth extraction may put several questions in your mind. Don't hesitate to inquire as reliable dental service providers should be happy to alleviate your woes about the dental procedure.

The questions you might ask may include:

  • Potential side effects
  • Worst-case scenarios
  • The difficulty of the operation
  • Risks involved

Also, ask the dental service provider about the possible consequences of leaving impacted or damaged wisdom teeth in your mouth. The professional should state the dangers of not proceeding with the extraction. But, he or she should also explain the potential benefits of having your wisdom teeth removed.

How to prepare for wisdom teeth extraction
How to prepare for wisdom teeth extraction

Preparations on the day of the surgery

Many dental care centres consider tooth extraction procedures as outpatient services. Hence, you can leave the establishment once the operation is over.

Upon entering the outpatient area, an assistant or the dental care professional might ask you which sedation and anesthetic options. You might choose among:

  • Local anesthesia
  • Intravascular (IV) sedation
  • Oral conscious sedation
  • Nitrous and oral sedation

These sedation techniques may not require fasting. But, consider eating a healthy meal before the operation. Eating a balanced meal helps avoid the risk of low blood sugar during the extraction process.

Also, don't forget to wear comfortable clothing. Consider wearing a short-sleeved shirt and sweatpants. These pieces of clothing may help you relax during the operation, especially if you opt for IV sedation.

You may also choose to bring a close friend, relative, or significant other with you during the extraction. That individual may help calm your nerves, and he or she might also drive you home afterward.

Preparations after the procedure

Don't think the dental care ends after the surgeon extracts your wisdom teeth. Stock up on soft foods as you might not chew appropriately because of the pain. Also, eating soft foods might reduce the risk of aggravating in the treated area.

Furthermore, consider skipping the toothbrush for one day. Resist the urge to brush your teeth for 24 hours after the operation. Give your mouth relief and avoid touching the treated area with your tongue. Otherwise, you might remove the stitches placed there by the dental surgeon.

Another tip is to prepare cotton and gauze if minor bleeding occurs in the treated area. But, if the bleeding doesn't seem to stop, go back to the surgeon's office immediately. The dental professional should advise you on additional treatment options to avoid infections.

Last, be sure to get plenty of rest after the operation. You might need a breather and some pain medication after the effects of the anesthetic or sedative dissipate.

The tips listed here will help you have a calm and successful experience before, during, and after the wisdom teeth extraction.

Don't disregard the importance of extracting damaged molars and proper dental hygiene. Pay a visit to your dentist soon for a consultation to see whether or not you need your wisdom teeth removed.

This is sponsored content for Dr Kristian van Mourik.