Getting wisdom teeth pulled is a part of life for most people sometime after they’re 16. You’ve probably heard your dentist mention it’s wise to have your wisdom teeth removed! While this may seem like a cause of anxiety for some, the good news is, the procedure is very common and nothing to worry about. Keep reading for answers to a few frequently asked questions about wisdom teeth removal.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt in the back of your mouth. Generally, this happens between the ages of 17 and 25. Many people have four wisdom teeth, but it’s also common to have a few missing, or even none.
Wisdom teeth can be impacted, which means they only erupt partially, or not at all. If there isn’t enough room in your jaw for them to erupt, they can come in crooked, causing other teeth to move and shift.
Do I need to Get my Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you’re experiencing pain and swelling in the back of your mouth, it could be time to have your wisdom teeth removed. If you’re between 16-25 years of age, we recommend book and appointment with your Richmond Dentist to have them X-rays done – regardless of whether you’re feeling discomfort. Getting your wisdom teeth looked at can identify any issues that may arise in the future, preventing discomfort and more serious dental issues. The older you are, the more your wisdom teeth will develop and the larger they’ll become. As a result, it becomes more difficult to remove them the longer you wait. Because of this, we recommend getting your wisdom teeth checked out sooner than later.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: What to Expect
Like any dental procedure, getting your wisdom teeth removed is a simple, painless and straightforward procedure with the right tools and anesthetic agents. In fact, getting your wisdom teeth removed usually takes around the same amount of time as a filling.
We recommend getting someone to drive you to and from your appointment. For the following few days after getting your wisdom teeth pulled, you may be prescribed painkillers to make your recovery more comfortable. Depending on the specifics of your personal situation, you may be able to go back to work or school the following day. However, a few days of rest is recommended. In fact, we recommend taking a few days to rest after surgery as too much physical activity can increase bleeding. You’ll also have to limit your diet to soft foods like mashed potatoes, ice cream and yogurt. The mouth and gums heal incredibly fast, and as healing progresses, you’ll be able to incorporate solid foods back into your diet.
Wisdom Teeth Removal at Kaizen
Getting your wisdom teeth removed doesn’t have to be a cause for anxiety! Our team of gentle and caring dentists would be happy to take a look at your specific oral needs and create a customized plan to assist you in the treatment of your wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is now a very common procedure, making it no cause for worry or anxiety!