REMOVAL OF WISDOM TEETH

WHEN DOES WISDOM TEETH ERUPT?

The last tooth to erupt into the mouth is called a wisdom tooth. It is named so because it erupts into the mouth at a stage in life when presumably people have developed some wisdom. Normally wisdom teeth erupt into the mouth between 18 to 21 years of age.

DOES ALL WISDOM TEETH NEEDS REMOVAL?

The simple answer to this is “No“. Only wisdom teeth that are troublesome and the ones that are causing damage to adjacent teeth need removal.

HOW PAINFUL IS WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL?

The severity of pain and swelling depends on how strongly these teeth are locked in the jaw bone. Some of them are very simple, easy and straight forward while others can be a little tricky. Mild to moderate amount of pain and swelling is to be expected after wisdom teeth removal.

DOES WISDOM TEETH NEED TO BE REPLACED?

No, wisdom teeth do not need replacement.

WHAT TYPE OF ANETHESIA IS ADVISED FOR WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL?  

Wisdom teeth are commonly removed under local anesthesia. However, in patients who are very anxious, some amount of sedation can be given to calm them down. If the procedure is extremely difficult and the patient is very anxious, general anesthesia can be given in a hospital setting.

CAN ALL WISDOM TEETH BE TAKEN OUT IN ONE GO?

It depends from person to person and the type of anesthesia that is being used. It is advisable to have all wisdom teeth taken out in one go if the patient opts for general anesthesia. If the procedure is being carried out under local anesthesia, it is advisable to have teeth taken out from one side only.

HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY?

The severity of pain and swelling will settle after about 48 to 72 hours. Depending on the difficulty of removal, the time factor can vary between individuals. On an average, about 7 days is the expected time for recovery after wisdom teeth removal.

HOW TO REDUCE SWELLING AFTER WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL?

The severity of swelling depends on the difficulty of the procedure itself. Some simple wisdom teeth removal has no swelling or minimal swelling, whereas others can have considerable swelling. Ice pack application to the side of the face soon after wisdom teeth removal can considerably reduce the discomfort and swelling to a great extent. In addition, the dentist will be prescribing tablets to reduce the pain and swelling.