If a dentist recently advised you to get a wisdom tooth removal, you may have questions about the procedure. Although a common operation, the uncertainties of what to expect can make people nervous. You can alleviate concerns and prepare for the surgery with the guide below.

Why Do Dentists Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are permanent adult molars located in the farthest corners of your mouth, which usually begin to appear between ages 17 and 25. Most people will need to remove them because they are impacted, meaning there isn't enough room for the teeth to come in properly. This issue can cause pain in the jaw area and lead to gum disease, as food will stay trapped between the tooth and soft tissue. 

Other issues can also determine whether you need wisdom tooth removal. The molars can come in at a slanted or right angle and press against your teeth. This situation can cause cysts or damage to the surrounding jaw bone. A dentist might also recommend you have wisdom teeth extracted before they can grow in to sustain any orthodontic treatment you have already had.

What Happens Before and During Surgery?

X-rays taken before surgery will let the dentist know where your teeth are and how many to remove, as some people will not have all four molars. To ensure you don't feel anything during the operation, they will first administer either local or sedation anesthesia. You'll remain awake as the tooth gets extracted if you receive the former. An oral surgeon will discuss these options with you before the treatment.

A dentist will make a small incision in the gums during the procedure to grab the tooth if the molars haven't grown in. After the extraction, they'll clean and stitch the wound, allowing the area to heal. The surgery will last around 45 minutes to one hour. 

What Is Recovery Like? 

After surgery, you may not be able to drive home due to the anesthesia, so ask a loved one to pick you up. Your face and jaw will be swollen for a few days after treatment. However, you can treat by icing the area in increments of fifteen minutes. Taking your prescribed pain medication will also help with pain and swelling. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but don't use a straw, as the pressure in your mouth can lead to stitches coming out.

If you need wisdom tooth removal, turn to the dentists at BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK. Their expert staff will put you at ease as you take the next step to a healthier smile. They use only the best technology to provide high-quality general and cosmetic dentistry services, including routine cleanings and tooth extractions. Call (907) 486-3257 to make an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their practice.