Wisdom teeth are often problematic because of the length of time it takes for them to emerge. Because they are the last teeth and are rather large, some people simply do not have enough space in their mouth to accommodate these teeth. Thankfully, individuals can have their wisdom teeth safely and effectively removed by the Oral Surgery Practice in Summit NJ.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Many dentists refer their patients to oral surgeons when their wisdom teeth need to be removed. This procedure is surgical and sometimes needs to be carried out under general anesthesia, depending on how many wisdom teeth are being removed.
If general anesthesia is used, the patient will be asleep during the entire procedure. This anesthesia is generally preferred when all of the wisdom teeth are being removed, so the patient is not awake during the long procedure.
Sometimes, the surgeon needs to remove wisdom teeth in pieces, to ensure they can be safely removed. Dissecting the tooth and removing it in smaller pieces is sometimes necessary when the tooth is too large. The surgeon will use the safest means of removing the tooth.
What Can Patients Expect From the Healing Process?
The healing process can take a few weeks as the gum tissue begins to grow in the socket that is now empty. If the surgeon used stitches to close the wounds left behind, the stitches would usually begin to dissolve after several days, so there is no need to go in and have them removed.
In the beginning, the patient may notice swelling and discomfort. Ice packs on the cheeks can help, along with taking pain medication prescribed by the doctor. A soft foods diet is recommended for the first week, so healing can take place. The patient needs to make sure they follow all of the directions their surgeon gives them, so they do not experience any adverse reactions to healing.
If you are in need of having your wisdom teeth removed, contact Westfield Oral Surgery. Allow them to safely and effectively remove your wisdom teeth so your smile health can be properly protected.