What is Wisdom tooth extraction?
Wisdom tooth or third molar extraction is a surgical procedure to remove unerupted or partially erupted tooth. There are 4 wisdom teeth 2 in upper arch and 2 in lower arch on either side.
What is procedure involved in wisdom tooth extraction?
- First your dentist will examine tooth and take an X – ray to assess the position of tooth, number, position and angulation of tooth root, amount of bone covered and relation of tooth to the underlying nerve.
- Later local anaesthesia will be administered to numb the tooth and incision will be given, flap will be elevated and bone will be trimmed with the help of hand piece and surgical bur.
- Tooth will be cut into crown and root portions and will be removed. After tooth removal extraction site will be irrigated and flap will be closed by the sutures and bleeding will be controlled by your dentist.
How much time is required for the completion of treatment?
Depending on the angulation of tooth whether it is mesially angulated, distally angulated, horizontal or vertical procedure time varies from patient to patient. Usually done in 1 hour.
What are the things to do after surgical tooth extraction?
- Remove the cotton placed in the extraction site after 45 minutes.
- Slight bleeding in the area may be seen, which will stop soon. If heavy bleeding persists consult your dentist immediately.
- Application of ice packs helps to control bleeding and swelling.
- Consume the medication advised by your dentist as guided.
- Do not rinse your mouth for first 24 hours. Do not spit, swallow the saliva.
- Slight swelling can occur at the sight of extraction which will subside after 4 – 5 days.
- Consume soft and cold food for first 48 hours or 2 days and avoid hot foods. After 2 days can consume hot foods.
- Do not consume juice, coconut water or any liquid with straw as it may increase the bleeding by dislodging the clot instead consume with glass.
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol till 10 -14 days, if not healing will be delayed and may lead to complications.
- If sutures are placed after extraction get them removed as advised by your dentist.