Wisdom teeth are the third row of molars or found at the farthest end of the dental arches. They were called “wisdom teeth” because they usually show up when an individual becomes a young adult. These are the last set of teeth to erupt. Sometimes these teeth can be useful to the mouth when erupted healthily and adequately, but more often, they are misaligned and require removal.
Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure that is done when the wisdom teeth are misaligned, impacted, infected, and decayed. Dentists and oral surgeons can perform wisdom tooth removal. Wisdom tooth removal is recommended by dentists and oral surgeons even when the impacted teeth are not causing any problems.
What to expect prior to the procedure?
The dentist or oral surgeon may use any of the three types of anesthesia, depending on how complicated the expected procedure is and the patient’s comfort level. Options may include:
- Local anesthesia. The dentist or oral surgeon administers local anesthesia with one or more injections near the extraction site. Before receiving an injection, a particular substance is applied to the gums to numb them. The patient is awake during the procedure, and although they may feel some pressure or movement, they will not experience any pain.
- Sedation anesthesia. The dentist or oral surgeon administers this type of anesthesia through an intravenous (IV) line in the patient’s arm. This type of sedation suppresses the patient’s consciousness during the procedure, and they won’t remember much about the process. They won’t feel any pain, and local anesthesia is also given to them to numb their gums.
- General anesthesia. This type of anesthesia is administered through inhaling the medication or an IV line in the patient’s arm. Patients are usually unconscious when sedated with general anesthesia. The patient is closely monitored by professionals to maintain and keep track of the patient’s health during the procedure. The patient won’t experience any pain and won’t remember a thing about the process. Local anesthesia is also given to help with postoperative discomfort.
After the wisdom teeth have been removed out of the patient’s mouth, proper aftercare is necessary to speed up the recovery. This may include:
- Restricting activities.
- Refrain from touching the wound area
- Avoid frequent rinsing the mouth.
- Apply ice on the cheeks outside the affected area.
- Take the prescribed medications intended to relieve pain as soon as the discomfort begins.
Looking for a safe and pain-free procedure? Book an appointment with us, call and visit us at 700 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine FL 32080. Salt Run Family Dentistry have caring and dedicated staff to help you feel pleasant during your Wisdom Teeth Removal in St. Augustine, FL.