Between the ages of 17 and 21 years old, a person’s third molars appear.
Better known as wisdom teeth, these teeth push have an uncomfortable way of pushing themselves in. Some people luckily have enough room for these teeth to come in and settle comfortably.
Unfortunately, many others need them removed due to a lack of room for more teeth. In some cases, these teeth even come in at the wrong position. This is why dentists recommend people for wisdom teeth removal surgery.
Are you in need of wisdom teeth removal? We’ve provided a guide below on what to expect. It’s not nearly as scary as it sounds so make sure to keep reading.
Setting Up Your Surgery
Your dentist should be keeping an eye on your third molars as you reach your young adult years. They should double-check you have room for your wisdom teeth to come in, and they should make sure they’re coming in at the correct position and aren’t impacted.
If they notice you need wisdom teeth removal, they’ll set you up with a local oral surgeon. Some dentist offices now offer the surgery themselves.
You’ll contact the oral surgeon to set up a consultation and surgery date. During the consultation, they’ll take a look at what’s going on, discuss your medical history, and give you a rundown on what surgery day will look like.
Ask any questions you have during your consultation. Your oral surgeon is there to ease your mind.
After your consultation, it’s important you find someone to drive you to and from your surgery. You won’t be able to operate a vehicle after your surgery.
If you work or go to school, go ahead and schedule a few days off. You’ll only need one day for the surgery, but you’ll need a few more to heal.
The Day of Your Surgery
The big day is here! If you’re wondering, “Oh gosh. How long does wisdom teeth removal take?”, don’t worry. Most people are in surgery for only a couple of hours.
Once you arrive at your surgeon’s office, they’ll call you back to the dental chair. Chat with your surgeon and techs about what kind of anesthesia you’ll be given for your surgery. Many oral surgeons will give you a choice.
You may be asked the question, “Do you want to go under for your surgery?” Your surgeon is simply asking if you’d like local or general anesthesia.
Local anesthesia will numb the area around your tooth, but you’ll remain awake for the surgery. With general anesthesia, you’ll “go under” in a deep sleep during the surgery.
If you decide on general anesthesia, the techs will stand with you and have you countdown until you’re asleep. You’ll wake up a little while after the surgery once it’s all done!
During your surgery, your surgeon may use dissolvable stitches if they need to cut your gum to reach your tooth.
Waking Up From Your Surgery
Did you decide on general anesthesia? You’ll wake up after your wisdom teeth removal, and you’ll feel a bit goofy and loopy. This is the time when many friends or family members take silly videos of their loved ones.
Don’t be too anxious about saying anything irrational or funny. Oral surgeons and techs have heard it all! They’ll know exactly what to do to take care of you.
After you’re feeling a bit better and more awake, you’ll be moved to your car. If you catch a look in the car mirrors, don’t be scared. You’ll have what many people call “chipmunk cheeks”.
Your cheeks will be swollen from the surgery, and it’ll take a few days for them to calm down. There will also be bandages and tissues placed in and around your mouth to slow any bleeding.
Because you’ll be a bit loopy, make sure whoever is driving listens to any special instructions for care from the surgeon. You can ask them about these tips later.
Healing After Surgery
After your surgery, it’s best to find a comfortable place to lay down for the rest of the day. Snuggle up in bed, or rest on your couch.
Most people fall asleep easily right after their surgery. If you wake up and find your pain has increased, use an ice pack on the outside of your mouth or take some of your prescribed pain medication.
Carefully follow all after-care instructions for healing. Many people notice major improvement after 3 or 4 days, but it could take as long as a week or two for others.
Even if you feel better after several days, continue caring for your wounds. Infection is possible even a month after the surgery. Immediately contact your surgeon if you notice any infection or complications.
Don’t use straws as you heal, and keep lots of soft foods near. This is a great time for soup, pudding, and ice cream.
Finding an Oral Surgeon
If you don’t receive a referral from your dentist, you might have to find an oral surgeon yourself. The internet will be your best friend. Head to a search engine and look up the phrase, “wisdom teeth removal near me”.
You’ll see a list of recommendations pop up along with reviews. Scan through all the reviews to find someone you can trust.
Chat with friends and family members about surgeons they’ve seen in the past if you’re unsure about anyone you’ve noticed during your internet searches. They might have great recommendations!
All You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth Removal
Being told you need wisdom teeth removal might sound scary, but it’s nothing to be worried about. It’s a quick surgery, and you’re in good hands.
Before your surgery, chat with your surgeon about how to care for your wounds. You’ll also want to clarify what type of anesthesia they’ll be using. Once you wake up, take time to rest and care for your mouth.
Are you located within the Provo, Utah area and in need of wisdom teeth surgery? Our Provo office offers high-quality care and services. Contact us today to set up a consultation.