Wisdom teeth removal is a common yet often misunderstood oral surgery many dental patients face as well as with sedation dentistry. Whether you’re experiencing pain or discomfort or have been advised by your dentist to consider this procedure as a preventive measure, understanding what’s involved can help alleviate some of the uncertainty. At Elan Dental Group, we’ve crafted this detailed guide to offer you everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal and sedation dentistry, helping you feel prepared and at ease with the process.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last to erupt in the mouth. Typically, they appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Anthropologists believe our ancestors needed these extra teeth to chew through raw plants and tough meats. However, wisdom teeth have become somewhat redundant in today’s world of soft, cooked foods and sophisticated dining tools.
While some people have all four wisdom teeth, others may have fewer or none at all. The number of wisdom teeth can vary from person to person, and it’s not uncommon for some individuals to be born without any wisdom teeth at all. This variation is believed to be the result of evolutionary changes in human jaw size and dietary habits over thousands of years.
Regardless of the number, these teeth can often cause complications, prompting the need for removal. The process of wisdom teeth eruption can be uncomfortable for many people, even if the teeth come in properly aligned. For others, the emergence of wisdom teeth can lead to more serious dental issues that require professional intervention.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal Might Be Necessary
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth might need to be extracted, and understanding these reasons can help patients make informed decisions about their oral health:
Impacted Teeth: When wisdom teeth are trapped within the jawbone or gums, they can cause significant discomfort and lead to infections. Impaction occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the tooth to fully emerge. This can result in the tooth growing at an angle, sometimes horizontally, which can cause pain and damage to adjacent teeth.
Misalignment: Wisdom teeth that grow crooked can push against adjacent teeth, causing alignment issues. This can undo years of orthodontic work and lead to overcrowding, making it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Pain and Discomfort: Persistent pain in the back of your mouth could indicate complications from wisdom teeth. This pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, intense discomfort, especially when chewing or opening the mouth wide.
Food Trapping: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets in the gums where food particles and bacteria can accumulate. These pockets are difficult to clean, leading to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease not only around the wisdom teeth but also affecting nearby teeth.
Cysts or Infections: Fluid-filled sacs or infections around wisdom teeth can damage surrounding bone or teeth. In severe cases, these cysts can lead to jaw weakening and nerve damage if left untreated.
Preventive Measure: Even if you don’t have symptoms, your dentist may recommend removal to avoid potential future issues. This proactive approach can save you from more complicated procedures down the line and protect your overall oral health.
Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Preparation is crucial for a smooth wisdom teeth removal experience and should begin with a thorough consultation. At your Elan Dental Group consultation, our expert oral surgeons, Dr. Mauricio Moeller and Dr. David Wagner, will carefully examine your teeth using leading-edge diagnostic tools. This may include 3D imaging technology to get a comprehensive view of your oral structure.
Understanding Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a crucial aspect of modern dental procedures, especially for more complex treatments like wisdom teeth removal. It’s important to understand that sedation dentistry is different from the actual wisdom teeth removal procedure. While wisdom teeth removal is the surgical extraction of the third molars, sedation dentistry refers to the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures.
Elan Dental Group offers various sedation dentistry options to ensure comfort during the procedure. Sedation dentistry can be particularly beneficial for patients who experience dental anxiety or for those undergoing lengthy or complex procedures. Depending on your needs and preferences, Dr. Mauricio Moeller or Dr. David Wagner may choose from:
Local Anesthesia: This is the most basic form of sedation, which numbs the specific area where the extraction will occur. It’s administered via injection and allows you to remain fully conscious during the procedure.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): This mild sedative helps you relax while remaining conscious. It’s inhaled through a mask and wears off quickly after the procedure, allowing you to drive yourself home.
IV Sedation: This provides deeper sedation while allowing you to stay semi-conscious. It’s administered intravenously and allows for a quicker onset of sedation. This option is often preferred for more complex extractions or for patients with higher levels of anxiety.
General Anesthesia: This renders you completely unconscious during the procedure. It’s typically reserved for the most complex cases or for patients with severe anxiety.
If opting for IV sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to prepare, including fasting guidelines and which medications to stop or continue. It’s crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure your safety during the procedure.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
On the day of your procedure, your oral surgeon will ensure you’re comfortable before starting. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect during the wisdom teeth removal process:
Anesthesia Administration: The surgeon will administer the appropriate anesthesia based on your chosen sedation method. This step is crucial in ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.
Incisions: If necessary, small incisions will be made in your gums to access the teeth. This is often required for impacted wisdom teeth that haven’t fully emerged from the gumline.
Tooth Extraction: The surgeon will carefully loosen and remove the wisdom teeth. This process may involve gently rocking the tooth back and forth to widen the socket. In some cases, especially with impacted teeth, the tooth may need to be divided into sections for easier removal. This approach minimizes the amount of bone that needs to be removed with the tooth.
Cleaning: Once the teeth are removed, the extraction site will be cleaned thoroughly to prevent infection. This involves removing any debris from the socket and may include irrigation with sterile saline solution.
Stitches: Dissolvable stitches will be placed to close the surgical sites if required. These stitches typically dissolve on their own within a week or two, eliminating the need for a follow-up appointment to remove them.
Gauze: Gauze will be applied to control bleeding and help a blood clot form in the socket. You’ll be instructed on how to change this gauze and for how long to keep it in place.
The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, although complex cases may require more time. Throughout the process, your vital signs will be monitored to ensure your safety, especially if you’re under IV sedation or general anesthesia.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Following your wisdom teeth removal, you can expect some discomfort, slight bleeding, and swelling. These are normal parts of the healing process. Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions for managing these symptoms and ensuring a smooth recovery. Here are some general dos and don’ts to help you through the recovery process:
Dos
Follow Medication Instructions: Take prescribed painkillers and antibiotics as directed. These medications will help manage pain and prevent infection.
Apply Ice Packs: Use ice packs on your face to reduce swelling. Apply for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off, repeating as needed for the first 24-48 hours.
Maintain Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with salt water 24 hours after the surgery. This helps keep the surgical sites clean and promotes healing.
Follow the Recommended Soft Food Diet: Stick to soft, nutritious foods that don’t require much chewing. Good options include yogurt, puddings, mashed potatoes, smoothies, soups (not too hot), scrambled eggs, and pureed vegetables.
Rest and Hydrate: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal. Stay hydrated with non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages. Proper hydration is crucial for the healing process.
Don’ts
Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy physical activities for at least a week. Excessive movement can dislodge blood clots and delay healing.
Don’t Smoke or Use Straws: These actions can create suction in your mouth, which can dislodge blood clots and lead to a painful condition called dry socket.
Stay Away from Hard Foods: Avoid crunchy, chewy, or hard foods for at least a week. These can irritate the surgical sites and impede healing.
Don’t Touch the Surgery Area: Avoid poking or prodding the extraction site with your tongue or fingers. This can introduce bacteria and disrupt the healing process.
Avoid Alcohol and Carbonated Beverages: These can irritate the surgical sites and interact with prescribed medications.
When to Call Your Doctor
While complications are rare, knowing when to seek professional help is essential. Contact your oral surgeon if you experience:
Severe pain that doesn’t subside with medication
Excessive bleeding or swelling that worsens after 2-3 days
Signs of infection, such as fever, pus discharge, or foul taste/odor in the mouth
Persistent numbness or tingling beyond the expected timeframe given by your surgeon
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Any symptoms that concern you or seem out of the ordinary
Why Choose Elan Dental Group?
At Elan Dental Group, we prioritize top-tier dental care, focusing on patient comfort and satisfaction. Our experienced oral surgery team, led by Dr. Mauricio Moeller, a third-generation dentist and board-certified prosthodontist, and Dr. David Wagner, a highly trained prosthodontist, provide personalized oral health care treatments tailored to your unique needs.
With locations in East Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Okemos, MI, our practice has state-of-the-art dental technology, ensuring you receive the highest quality care. From 3D imaging for precise diagnostics to advanced sterilization techniques, we invest in technology that enhances patient care and outcomes.
You don’t have to accept a smile you’re not proud of. If you’re ready for a complete smile makeover, contact Elan Dental Group today to start your journey towards the smile you deserve.
