Wisdom Teeth Removal and Recovery
Wisdom teeth are the 3rd and final set of molars erupting between the age of 17 and 25. Wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure carried out to remove one or more wisdom teeth. The removal of a wisdom tooth is needed if it has become impacted because there is not enough room in the jaw for it grow. An impacted wisdom tooth can cause a number of problems including:
– Pain
– Infection
– Gum disease (periodontal disease)
– Trapping of food
– Decay in a partially erupted tooth
– Damage to the neighbouring teeth
– Development of a cyst (fluid-filled sac) around the tooth
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost:
The procedure starts with a thorough examination of your oral cavity and a detailed history about any pre-existing health conditions or medications you are taking. The wisdom tooth removal cost varies but it is usually within the range of $75-$200. However, for an impacted tooth, it can even cost between $250-$400. This may seem expensive but the good news is that wisdom tooth extraction is covered by most health insurances.
Following the examination, your dental surgeon will start the procedure and you will be given one of the following types of anaesthesia to minimize the discomfort.
Local Anaesthesia:It is administered with an injection near the site of extraction. A local numbing agent is applied before the injection. You remain awake during the procedure and even though there is no pain, you can feel a little pressure and movement.
Sedation Anaesthesia: It is administered via an IV line in your arm. It suppresses your consciousness resulting into no sensation of pain and little memory of the procedure. It is usually combined with a local numbing applied to the gums.
General Anaesthesia: It is given via inhalation or an IV line in your arm. It is suitable for anxious or non-cooperative patient. You stay unconscious throughout the procedure and have no memory of it.
During the procedure, your surgeon makes an incision to expose the toothand removes any intervening bone that may be blocking the access to the tooth. The tooth is then divided into segments to ease the process of removal. After all the pieces have been successfully removed, the site of extraction is cleaned and stitched up (this is optional) if necessary. A gauze piece is place over the extraction site to control bleeding and promote healing.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery:
Following a general anaesthesia, you are likely to wake up in a recovery room as it may take some time for you to regain consciousness. It usually takes 2-4 days to fully recover from a wisdom tooth extraction.You may be advised to follow some instruction to hasten the process of healing.
Bleeding: Some bleeding the first day following the extraction is normal. Avoid excessive spitting to keep the blood clot from dislodging the extraction site. Change the gauze piece periodically as directed.
Pain: It is usually not severe and can be managed by over-the-counter analgesics such as Tylenol and ibuprofen. However, if you are experiencing severe pain, you maybe be given stronger prescription painkillers.
Swelling and Bruising: Some swelling is normal and typically subsides within a day or two. Bruising may take a little longer to resolve. Holding an ice pack over the check can help.
Beverages: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, caffeinated and carbonated drinks. Avoid using a straw as the suction action can dislodge the blood clot.
Food: Take only liquid and soft food items such as yogurt for the first 24 hours. You can move on to semisolid and solid food when you feel ready.
Oral hygiene: Do not brush, floss or rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours. You can continue your oral hygiene regimens after the first day, being particularly careful near the wound.
You may be given absorbable stitches, non-absorbable stitches or no stitches at all. In case of non-absorbable stitches your surgeon will schedule an appointment for you to come back and get them removed. Wisdom tooth removal is a minor procedure and usually there are no complications.
If you have more questions regarding wisom teeth removal, please contact Bello Dental today.
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