Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come in during development. As children reach the age of 12 years or older, wisdom teeth begin to develop and become more prominent. By the time a wisdom tooth becomes visible, it may be time for extraction. There are several reasons why extraction may be necessary, and common risks associated with the procedure include pain, bleeding, and infection. Here are some tips that will help you prepare for your wisdom tooth extraction and minimize complications.
When to seek wisdom tooth extraction is a decision that should be made in consultation with a dentist. However, if you notice any of the following signs of impending trouble with your wisdom teeth, it is best to schedule an appointment: your child experiences pain when chewing or swallowing; their dental hygiene has deteriorated; or their dentist has previously recommended surgery for one or more of their wisdom teeth.
During Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure.
There are several steps that will take place during your Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure: anesthesia will be administered; a local anesthetic will numb the area around your jawbone where surgery will take place; instruments such as clamps and drills will be used to remove the tooth; nerve damage from anesthesia can lead to facial paralysis down the line, so it is important to keep all treatments as simple as possible while ensuring safety. Aftercare Tips:
- Drink plenty of fluids after surgery, especially if you experience any type of pain.
- Apply ice packs directly to painful areas for 20 minutes every four hours (maximum six times per day).
- Take ibuprofen (Advil) if you experience severe painkillers side effects such as headache, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.