Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth at the back of your mouth. They typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. While some people have no problems with their wisdom teeth, many others experience issues, especially when these teeth become impacted. If you’ve been told that you have impacted wisdom teeth, you might be wondering what it means and what steps you need to take next. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about Cosmetic Dentistry in Bakersfield for impacted wisdom teeth.
What Does It Mean to Have Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Before we dive into the extraction process, it’s important to understand what it means when wisdom teeth are “impacted.” Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is not enough space in the mouth for these teeth to come in properly. Instead of growing straight up through the gums, impacted wisdom teeth may grow at an angle, get stuck beneath the gum line, or even grow sideways.
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth might become impacted. Sometimes, it’s because there’s simply not enough space in the mouth for them to emerge. Other times, it’s due to the way the teeth are positioned in the jaw. Whatever the reason, impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and several other dental problems.
Why Do Impacted Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Not all impacted wisdom teeth need tooth extraction in Bakersfield, but if they cause problems, it’s often necessary. Some of the common issues caused by impacted wisdom teeth include:
- Pain: One of the most obvious signs that your wisdom teeth are impacted is pain. You may feel discomfort at the back of your mouth, around your gums, or even in your jaw.
- Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infections because they create pockets where bacteria can gather. This can result in swelling, bad breath, and redness around the gums.
- Damage to Nearby Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, leading to misalignment or damage to surrounding teeth.
- Cysts: In rare cases, an impacted wisdom tooth can form a cyst, which can damage bone and other healthy teeth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend having your impacted wisdom teeth extracted to prevent further complications.
How is the Extraction Process Done?
The extraction of impacted wisdom teeth is a common procedure, but it’s important to understand what to expect. The complexity of the extraction process depends on how the teeth are positioned and whether they are fully impacted or partially erupted.
1. Initial Consultation
The first step is an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon. During this visit, they will take X-rays of your mouth to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. The X-rays will help them determine how deep the teeth are impacted and whether there are any risks or complications.
Once the X-rays are taken, your dentist will explain what needs to be done and discuss your options for anesthesia. Some people choose local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the teeth, while others may opt for sedation or general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep during the procedure.
2. The Extraction Procedure
On the day of the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area around your impacted wisdom teeth. If you’re getting general anesthesia, you’ll be asleep during the procedure. The surgeon will then make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to make removal easier.
Once the tooth is removed, the surgeon will clean the area and, if necessary, stitch up the incision. The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
3. Post-Procedure Care
After the procedure, you will be given instructions for care to help your mouth heal properly. For the first few days, you will need to rest and avoid certain foods, as your gums and jaw will be sore. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and bleeding in the days following the procedure, but these symptoms should gradually improve.
Your dentist or surgeon will give you pain relief medication to manage any discomfort. It’s important to follow all the care instructions carefully to prevent infection and ensure a smooth recovery.
Recovery: What to Expect After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction typically takes a few days to a week. Here’s what you can expect during your recovery period:
1. Pain and Swelling
After the extraction, you will likely experience some discomfort and swelling around the affected area. The pain should be manageable with prescribed painkillers or over-the-counter medications. You can also apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling.
2. Bleeding
It’s normal to have a little bleeding after the extraction, especially in the first few hours. Bite down on a gauze pad to help stop the bleeding. If the bleeding continues for longer than expected, contact your dentist or surgeon.
3. Dietary Restrictions
For the first few days after the surgery, stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the extraction took place. You should also avoid hot drinks, straws, and foods that could irritate the surgical site.
4. Oral Hygiene
It’s important to keep your mouth clean during the recovery process. However, you should avoid brushing the extraction site for a few days. Instead, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to help keep the area clean. Your dentist will give you more specific instructions on when it’s safe to resume brushing.
5. Follow-Up Appointments
In some cases, your dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to check how your mouth is healing. If you had stitches, they might need to be removed after a week or two. Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure your recovery is on track.
Risks and Complications of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with wisdom tooth extraction. However, complications are rare. Some potential risks include:
- Dry Socket: This happens when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged, leaving the bone exposed. Dry socket can be painful and may require treatment from your dentist.
- Infection: If bacteria enter the surgical site, an infection can occur. This can usually be managed with antibiotics, but it’s important to keep the area clean and follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid this.
- Nerve Damage: Though extremely rare, the nerves in the area around the wisdom teeth can be damaged during extraction, leading to temporary or permanent numbness in the lip, tongue, or chin.
Most of these risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced oral surgeon and following post-surgery care instructions closely.
Should You Remove Your Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
If you have impacted wisdom teeth but are not experiencing any pain or problems, you might be wondering if removal is still necessary. In some cases, dentists may recommend removal as a preventative measure, even if there are no current issues. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems later in life, so removing them early can help avoid complications.
However, not everyone with impacted wisdom teeth will need them removed. Your dentist will assess your specific case and help you make the best decision.
Conclusion
Tooth extraction for impacted wisdom teeth is a common procedure that can help prevent pain, infection, and other complications. If you’ve been told that you have impacted wisdom teeth, it’s important to understand the reasons for extraction and what the process entails. With proper care and attention, you can recover quickly and get back to your daily routine without any issues. If you have any questions or concerns about wisdom tooth extraction, be sure to talk to your dentist or oral surgeon for guidance.
Freya Parker 
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