When it comes to determining whether to have your wisdom teeth removed or not, there are several different factors that need to be taken into consideration. Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth that emerge in your mouth and because many people don’t typically have enough room in their jaws to accommodate them, they can cause several problems. If you think that you may benefit from a wisdom tooth extraction, it’s probably a good idea a good idea to book an appointment at a dental clinic near you.
We’ve broken down everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removals, from why they should be removed, to how to prepare, to how much the entire procedure can cost.
Why Do You Need to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several different reasons why you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed, the most common being that most people just don’t have the space in their jaw to accommodate wisdom teeth. Because of this, wisdom teeth can be extremely painful and often require removal to alleviate that pain. Even if your wisdom teeth don’t cause you pain, your dentist may still recommend having them removed to avoid any complications that could arise in the future, such as impaction, which happens when your wisdom teeth remain hidden beneath the gums, or crowding, which can happen if your wisdom teeth try to come in when you don’t have enough room in your jaw, causing them to crowd your other teeth.
Preparing for Wisdom Tooth Removal
After meeting with your dentist and determining that your wisdom teeth do need to be removed, the preparation is relatively simple. Wisdom teeth extractions are considered outpatient surgery, which means you will be in and out within the same day. It’s always a good idea to have someone come along to drive you home from the procedure, as you will be given some form of anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the extraction. Make sure to discuss which type of anesthesia you will receive during the surgery with your dentist ahead of time so you can know what to expect.
How Long Does It Take to Recover After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
Recovery from a wisdom tooth extraction typically takes three to four days, however, if your teeth were impacted or at an awkward angle, it can take a full week to fully recover. You’ll want to eat soft foods for the first few days to avoid aggravating the wounds and dislodging stitches, so make sure to stock up on things like soup, pudding, and mashed potatoes before surgery. Staying hydrated is essential, but make sure to avoid drinking from a straw, which can dislodge the blood clots that form over the wound and cause further complications. You will likely be sore for a few days after surgery, so icing the sides of your face can help relieve some of the pain and reduce swelling. Your dentist will provide you with a list of post-extraction instructions to follow, so it’s important to follow those instructions to ensure a quick recovery.
How Much Does It Cost to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
When it comes to the cost associated with having your wisdom teeth removed, it is always best to speak with your dentist to get a full breakdown. The cost will differ depending on several different factors, such as how many teeth you will be having removed and the type of anesthesia you will require. Because each individual person’s situation is unique, your dentist will be able to give you a quote that is specific to you and your wisdom teeth extraction.
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, and with lots of rest and by following the instructions provided to you by your dentist, you will be back on your feet in no time!