Wisdom Tooth Removal in Allen Park, MI
Wisdom Tooth Removal: When It’s Necessary and What You Need to Know
If you’re experiencing pain and sensitivity in the back of your mouth or inflammation around your wisdom teeth, it may be time to consider wisdom tooth extraction. While the idea of having a tooth removed can be daunting, this may be the best option for your oral health.
At Allen Park Dentistry, Dr. Dema Mahjoub is one of the best dentists in Allen Park, MI, for keeping your oral health on the right track. Learn more about wisdom teeth and when they may need removal.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of adult molars that usually emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties. These teeth grow despite limited space, resulting in overcrowding of the mouth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause issues like pushing other teeth out of place or growing sideways, leading to severe smile issues.
What Happens During Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
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Preparing for the Procedure
To minimize pain and discomfort during the procedure, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the wisdom tooth. In some cases, they may also offer sedation dentistry to help the individual relax and feel more comfortable.
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Extracting Wisdom Tooth
Once the area is numb, Dr. Mahjoub will use specialized instruments to loosen the wisdom tooth from the socket and carefully remove it. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, they may need to make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
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Closing the Extraction Site
After removing the teeth, Dr. Mahjoub will clean the extraction site and may place a piece of gauze over the area to help control bleeding. They may also stitch the site closed, although in some cases, the site may be left open to heal on its own.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Aftercare
After wisdom tooth removal, it’s crucial to take proper care of your mouth to promote healing and prevent infection. Here are some tips for wisdom tooth removal aftercare:
- Use Cold Compresses: Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the extraction site to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply the ice pack for 10 to 20 minutes several times daily.
- Avoid Solid Foods: For the first day or two after the procedure, stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes. Avoid hot or spicy foods that may irritate the extraction site.
- Rinse Your Mouth: Starting the day after the procedure, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water several times daily to help reduce swelling and promote healing. Be sure not to spit forcefully, as this may dislodge the clot and delay healing.
- Take Pain Medication: Take medication as prescribed by your dentist to manage discomfort. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 24 hours after the procedure, as these can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pain during wisdom tooth extraction varies from person to person and depends on the complexity of the procedure. However, with local anesthesia, the surgery itself is typically not painful. After the procedure, it’s normal to experience some discomfort and swelling, but this can usually be managed with pain medication.
Recovery time after wisdom tooth extraction can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the procedure. Typically, it takes about a week to fully recover, although some people may feel better in a few days.
It depends on the individual and the procedure being performed. Some people may opt for sedation dentistry to help them relax during the procedure, while others may prefer to be fully awake and alert. The dentist or oral surgeon can discuss the options and help determine the best approach based on the individual’s needs and preferences.
It’s best to take at least a day or two off work to rest and allow for proper healing after wisdom tooth extraction. Depending on the individual and the type of work they do, they may be able to return to work sooner or may need additional time off.
Don’t Let Tooth Pain Hold You Back. Discover Gentle Extraction Techniques.
Tooth extractions may seem intimidating, but there’s usually no need to worry. While Dr. Mahjoub will do everything she can to save your natural tooth, sometimes it needs to be removed for the greater benefit of your smile.
Call our Allen Park, MI, office at (313) 928-8848 to schedule an appointment at our office serving patients in Melvindale, Lincoln Park, and Taylor, MI.