What are wisdom teeth and why do they need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually during late adolescence or early adulthood. They often need to be removed because they can become impacted , cause crowding or misalignment of other teeth, or lead to infections and other oral health problems.

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How do I know if I need wisdom tooth surgery?

Your dentist can determine if you need wisdom tooth surgery through a dental examination and X-rays. Common signs that may indicate the need for surgery include pain, swelling, infection, difficulty opening your mouth, or problems with neighboring teeth.

 

 

What does the wisdom tooth removal procedure involve?

The procedure involves numbing the area with local anesthesia, making an incision in the gum tissue if necessary, removing the tooth, and stitching the gum back together if needed. In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into sections for easier removal.

 

 

Is wisdom tooth surgery painful?

While you may experience some discomfort during and after the procedure, your dentist  will administer anesthesia to ensure you're as comfortable as possible. After the surgery, you may experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with pain medications and ice packs.

 

 

What are the risks and complications associated with wisdom tooth extraction?

Risks and complications can include infection, dry socket (a painful condition where the blood clot in the extraction site becomes dislodged), nerve damage, and damage to nearby teeth or structures. However, these complications are rare, especially when the procedure is performed by an experienced professional.

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How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth surgery?

Recovery time varies, but most people can expect to resume normal activities within a few days to a week after surgery. Complete healing typically takes a few weeks.

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What can I expect during the recovery period?

During the recovery period, you may experience some swelling, pain. You'll need to follow your dentist's instructions for caring for the extraction site, which may include no brushing for a day, eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activities, and practicing good oral hygiene.

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Are there any dietary restrictions after wisdom tooth surgery?

Initially, you'll want to stick to soft foods that don't require much chewing, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and smoothies. Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods that could irritate the extraction site.

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How can I manage pain and swelling after the surgery?

Two different painkillers will be prescribed for the first two days to ensure effective pain relief. Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

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When can I resume normal activities, such as eating and exercising, after wisdom tooth removal?

You can gradually resume normal activities as you feel comfortable, but avoid strenuous exercise and activities that could dislodge the blood clot or cause bleeding in the first few days after surgery. Typically, you'll need to return for stitch removal after at least five days. Afterward, you can resume your normal diet and routine.

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What should I do if I experience any complications after the surgery?

If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, signs of infection (such as fever or pus), or any other concerning symptoms, contact the clinic immediately.

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Will I need follow-up appointments after wisdom tooth surgery?

We will typically schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress and remove any stitches after week.

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Are there any alternatives to surgery for removing wisdom teeth?

In some cases, wisdom teeth may not need to be removed if they're healthy, properly aligned, and not causing any problems. However, extraction is often recommended if there's a risk of complications or if the teeth are impacted.

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What are the potential long-term effects of not removing wisdom teeth?

Not removing wisdom teeth when necessary can lead to various oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, cysts, and damage to neighboring teeth.

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How much does wisdom tooth surgery typically cost, and is it covered by insurance?

The cost of wisdom tooth surgery varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, location. Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for wisdom tooth extraction, but it's important to check with your insurance provider for details about coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

You have the option to utilize Medisave for covering the surgical procedure costs.