Wisdom Teeth Removal in Grande Prairie
Why should I have my Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
The last teeth to erupt in your mouth are called wisdom teeth, also referred to as the third molars. The eruption of your wisdom teeth typically happens between the age of 16-25, a time in most people’s lives that is considered the ‘Age of Wisdom’.
When Should I have my Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come in for most people. In certain cases, wisdom teeth align properly, but for most wisdom tooth extraction cannot be avoided. Wisdom teeth need to be removed when there is not enough space for them to erupt properly within the mouth – leading to a patient’s wisdom teeth growing sideways, only partially emerging or remaining trapped underneath the gums. When wisdom teeth do have enough space to come in, they can be difficult to clean properly causing tooth decay and the need for removal regardless.
Several problems are caused by wisdom teeth, including:
- Infection
- Disease
- Damage to the adjacent teeth
- Crowding
Thankfully, a simple extraction can alleviate these potential problems before they cause an issue.
Post-Extraction Care for Wisdom Teeth
It is important that you wait to eat or chew while your mouth is still numb – you should regain feeling within a few hours. You will need to keep your gauze on the extraction site for a minimum of 35-40 minutes, keeping a slight pressure on the site.
Following extraction, you may experience mild swelling discomfort, which is part of the normal healing process. Cold compresses or a black tea bag can help decrease the swelling, and medication prescribed will manage any pain.
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Post-Extraction Care
Immediately after, your mouth will be numb. Make sure you don’t bite your cheek, lip, or tongue! You can prevent this by not eating or chewing while still numb. You should regain feeling within a few hours. Don’t take out any gauze pack you may have on the extraction site for at least 30 to 45 minutes after you leave, and don’t chew on it.
Hi! I’m Dr. Stephen Schalk
BSc, DDS, Owner at West Grande Prairie Dental
And this web page has been reviewed and checked for accuracy by yours truly!