05 Oct 2023
It is not uncommon for people to need their wisdom teeth removed. These teeth are routinely extracted with a simple oral surgery procedure that can be completed in a single visit. Our guide will answer all of your questions about this procedure, from how to prepare for the surgery to how long you can expect to spend in recovery.
What Is Involved in Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery?
Wisdom teeth removal surgery is a procedure performed by oral surgeons and family dentists in Mississauga. Its purpose is to remove wisdom teeth that are causing oral health problems. Your wisdom teeth are teeth that erupt in the back of your mouth, usually between ages 17 and 25.
Wisdom tooth removal is performed while the patient is under anesthesia. Some patients may also choose to have IV sedation during their surgery.
Why Is This Done?
You may need wisdom tooth removal surgery if:
- Your wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck in your gums or jawbone).
- Your wisdom teeth are crooked or sideways.
- Your wisdom teeth are trapping food around them.
- You have gum disease or tooth decay around your wisdom teeth.
- You have a cyst near your wisdom teeth.
- You are experiencing pain at the back of your mouth.
- Your wisdom teeth have damaged nearby teeth or jawbone material.
Factors to Consider When Booking Wisdom Tooth Removal
There are a few major factors to consider when choosing dental offices in Mississauga for wisdom tooth surgery.
- Hygiene. Your dentist’s office should be clean and orderly with clear, standardized sanitation procedures.
- Cost. The cost of wisdom tooth removal varies, but most dental offices follow the Ontario dental fee guide. Look for an office that will not charge you much more than the recommended amount.
- Location. Choosing a dental office that is close to your home makes it easy for you to receive timely follow-up care. It also helps prevent you from having to find an emergency dentist in Mississauga if you develop complications.
- Service. Your dentist in Mississauga should make you feel welcome and well cared for at their office. They should also be happy to answer all of your questions before, during, and after your procedure.
How Should I Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Before your appointment with your Mississauga dentist, prepare for your procedure by following the tips below.
- What to Wear. Wear comfortable clothing. If you will be receiving IV fluids, choose a top with sleeves that are easy to roll up.
- Food and Drink. Ask your dentist if there are any special instructions you should follow before your procedure. Depending on the type of anesthesia they are using, you may need to fast to reduce the risk of vomiting and aspiration during the surgery.
- Medications. Tell your dentist about any medications you are currently taking, including vitamins and supplements. Do not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 8 hours before your surgery.
- What to Bring. Bring your dental insurance card and insurance paperwork. You should also arrange to receive a ride home from someone after your surgery.
What Happens During Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Your dentist will begin the procedure by anesthetizing you so you will not feel pain during the surgery. They may also give you oral or IV sedation. Your dentist will then slice your gums to fully expose your wisdom teeth.
Next, your dentist will grasp each wisdom tooth with instruments and carefully loosen it before removing it from your jawbone. They may need to cut your tooth into several pieces to do this.
Once the tooth is gone, they will clean the area and stitch your gums closed again. They will finish the procedure by applying gauze to the surgical site.
Dos and Don’ts After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Do:
- Leave the gauze on your extraction site for at least 30 minutes or until the bleeding slows. Replace the gauze as needed.
- Get plenty of rest. Stay home and recover for at least 3-5 days (longer if you have a physically demanding job).
- Use an ice pack to relieve pain and swelling.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash to keep the extraction site clean.
- Brush and floss the rest of your teeth as usual.
- Take all of the medication you are prescribed.
Don’t:
- Use straws. Doing so may dislodge the blood clots on your surgical site and cause a painful condition called dry socket.
- Exercise or lift heavy things until your extraction site has fully healed. You might slow the healing process or increase your risk of complications.
- Eat crunchy or chewy foods. These foods can cause painful trauma to your healing gums.
- Drink alcoholic or fizzy beverages for at least 5 days. These drinks can increase your risk of developing dry socket.
What Are the Benefits of Removing Wisdom Teeth?
Removing your wisdom teeth reduces your risk of future oral health problems. These include:
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Bone loss
- Jaw damage
- Damage to surrounding teeth
Common FAQs
1. How Long Does It Take to Recover After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Most people take 1-2 weeks to fully recover from wisdom tooth surgery. You will probably be able to resume normal activities after 3-5 days.
2. What Is the Worst Day of Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Most people experience the most pain and swelling 3-4 days after wisdom tooth surgery. Let your dentist know if you experience worsening pain 4 or more days after your surgery. This may indicate that you have developed an infection.
3. How Long After Wisdom Teeth Removal Can I Eat?
You can eat as soon as you feel ready to do so after your surgery. Eat a soft diet for the first 3-5 days to minimize pain and promote faster healing. Use a spoon instead of a straw to eat thicker liquids like smoothies and milkshakes.
4. When Can I Go Back to Work or School?
Most people can go back to work or school 3-5 days after wisdom tooth surgery.
5. When Should I Call My Oral Surgeon?
Call your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience:
- Severe pain that cannot be managed with your prescribed medication
- A high fever (102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher)
- Heavy bleeding
- Swelling that gets worse after 3 days have passed
- Pus coming from your surgical site
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
6. What Are the Risks or Complications of Extraction?
Risks of wisdom tooth extraction include:
- Infection
- Dry socket (a condition in which the clotted blood over your surgical site is disrupted)
- Damage to the teeth, jawbone, or facial nerves around the extraction site
Visit the Best Dentist in Mississauga for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Getting your wisdom teeth removed is an investment in your oral health. Make sure the procedure goes smoothly by booking your surgical appointment at Trillium Smile Dentistry. Many of our patients have told us that they consider us to be the best dental office in Mississauga. Contact us today, and let us show you why you can trust us with all of your dental care needs.