Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Summer Creek

Preparing for Wisdom Tooth Removal

Not every teen gets wisdom teeth, and some will have enough room in their mouths to accommodate them. If this is not the case, removal can save you a lot of pain and prevent you from getting a crowded mouth. Read on to learn more about how your teeth are removed and how to prepare for the procedure.

What Is a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom teeth extraction, an outpatient procedure, involves removing the third set of molars. These molars usually appear around age 17 to 25. Most people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. An impacted tooth is one that does not have enough space to grow naturally. The purpose of the extraction is to prevent other teeth from becoming damaged.

Before Wisdom Tooth Extraction

It is easiest to remove a wisdom tooth before age 20. The healing process is also faster. This is because the roots of these extra molars are not fully formed. As you get older, the roots get longer and curve, making extraction difficult. Before the extraction, you will go for a consultation with our dentist, Chrishelle Hemphill, DDS, MBA. During the consultation, Dr. Hemphill will review your dental records and take X-rays to confirm what is necessary for the wisdom tooth extraction.

Prepare for Surgery on Your Wisdom Teeth

When it comes to eating or drinking before the surgery, you cannot consume any food or drinks after midnight if you are getting intravenous anesthesia. During the procedure, you will want to wear comfortable clothes that are loose-fitting. You want to make sure you are wearing a short-sleeved shirt or one with sleeves that are easy to roll up in case you have to get intravenous anesthesia.

Procedure of the Wisdom Tooth Extraction

To start the procedure, you will receive anesthesia. This could be nitrous oxide or intravenous sedation. The type of anesthesia administered will depend on how complex the wisdom tooth extraction is as well as how many extractions are necessary. Dr. Hemphill will then cut into the gum to remove the wisdom tooth either whole or in pieces. This is a 45-minute procedure.

During recovery, it's advisable to eat soft foods that don't require you to bite down. This can include applesauce and oatmeal. Yogurt and smoothies are other good choices, as you do not have to chew when consuming them.

Recovery After Removing Wisdom Teeth

It could take six weeks for the extraction site to heal. During the first 24 hours after the extraction, avoid vigorously rinsing your mouth. Do not use mouthwash with alcohol or consume alcohol. Try not to brush your teeth near the extraction site. Use a manual toothbrush, as it is gentler than an electric one.

When it comes to finding a dentist who can help with extractions, Cuddle Kids Dental Care has many years of experience. We provide the highest level of dental care. Dr. Hemphill is compassionate in her care of patients. Contact us today so we can help you with your dental needs in Summer Creek and the rest of the Fort Worth, Texas area.