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Wisdom Teeth Removal: What Should You Expect?

Wisdom teeth removal is the process of removing the last set of molars in your child’s mouth. Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to come in, usually between ages 17 to 21

Because they are the last to arrive, they often come in crooked or don’t have enough room to fully push through the gum. Keep reading to learn what to expect before, during, and after your child’s wisdom tooth surgery.

Wisdom Teeth: What to Expect When You Have Them Removed

When your child has impacted wisdom teeth, he or she will likely experience pain in the area around the teeth. Your teenager may also have significant swelling on the face or jaw.

In the case of an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. In a non-emergency, if your child is experiencing any pain, call Kool Smiles to discuss the issue with one of our dentists and determine if the wisdom teeth need to be removed.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

There are several steps to getting wisdom teeth removed, including:

  1. Preparation 
    • Examination/Consultation
    • X-rays
    • Choice of anesthetic (numbing medicine): local, sedation, or general anesthesia. These all help ensure your child is comfortable during surgery. Your dentist will recommend the best choice for your child.
  1. Removal—The following steps depend upon your child’s specific wisdom teeth and how they’re situated
    • Expose tooth below the gum, and if needed, cut away bone to get at root of tooth
    • Remove the tooth
    • Clean the socket (the hole left by the removed tooth)
    • Close with stitches if needed
  1. Healing—The healing process requires that your child follows the guidelines the dentist or oral surgeon gives
    • Plan on your child requiring rest for two to three days with pain medication
    • No smoking is allowed
    • Allow your child to consume soft foods only for the first 24 hours
    • Change gauze in mouth as needed

Dry Socket

Dry socket is a complication that occurs frequently after wisdom teeth removal procedures. The hole left behind when a tooth is pulled is called a socket. A blood clot naturally forms in the socket to cover the exposed nerves and bone.

If that clot doesn’t stay in place or does not form properly, a dry socket can occur.

Schedule an Appointment at Kool Smiles

At Kool Smiles, we’re happy to explain the wisdom teeth removal procedure and answer any questions you might have.

If your child is experiencing facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, or a fever, give us a call and make your appointment today.

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Sources:

WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/wisdom-teeth

Colgate: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/article/impacted-tooth