Wisdom tooth extraction is never fun, but it’s a good idea to take care of your wisdom teeth sooner rather than later. If you ignore them, your teeth might feel crowded and shift over time, which can affect your bite and ruin any orthodontic work. Plus, you could even end up with an infection later in life.
Fortunately, wisdom tooth extraction is a routine procedure. It alleviates any pain and helps resolve current and future dental problems. Many dentists recommend extracting your wisdom teeth once all your adult teeth are accounted for — between the ages of 15-22. These third molars can grow in at an angle, become impacted, and damage your nearby teeth.
At Dental Arts of Edgewater, in Edgewater, New Jersey, Dr. Michael Moawad assesses your dental health and handles wisdom tooth extraction with care.
What to expect immediately after your wisdom tooth extraction
Right after your wisdom teeth are removed, you’ll rest in the dental chair and probably still be under some amount of sedation. Fortunately, in the hands of an experienced dentist like Dr. Moawad, wisdom tooth extraction is a straightforward process, and he works quickly.
That said, having your wisdom teeth pulled is oral surgery, and there can be some bleeding directly afterward. That’s normal.
It’s important to follow Dr. Moawad’s directions to aid your mouth in creating a blood clot so your gums can heal. You can apply gentle pressure with gauze over the now-empty sockets of your wisdom teeth.
Possible swelling and bruising
Pain, swelling, and light bruising are common within the first 24-48 hours. You can use over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs to reduce your pain and swelling.
Since your mouth will be tender, you’ll want to eat soft foods like yogurt and soup for the first few days.
Rest
Your body needs to heal after oral surgery. When you rest, you allow your body the downtime it needs. So don’t expect to jump right back into your routine after wisdom tooth extraction. Give yourself a couple of days to rest and heal. It’s a good idea to skip any strenuous activities for up to a week after your surgery.
Follow up appointments
Once your wisdom teeth are extracted, your gum tissue will grow to cover the socket, and eventually, you won’t even remember your wisdom teeth.
Depending on your situation, Dr. Moawad may request a follow-up appointment to assess your healing. That’s not always needed unless you have a fever or ongoing pain.
Whether your wisdom teeth extraction is for preventive care or an emergency, you’re in capable hands at Dental Arts of Edgewater. Call our office today or utilize our online scheduling tool to book an appointment anytime.