James E Sullivan DDS Dentist Fort Washington Maryland

If you need to schedule a wisdom teeth extraction, you likely have numerous questions about the procedure and what it entails. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to go over the details in person.

In the meantime, here is an FAQ with questions that we hear on a regular basis.

Why do I need to get my wisdom teeth out?

Most people have a professional remove their wisdom teeth when there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth. The third molars can overcrowd the mouth and push the teeth out of alignment. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to remove the wisdom teeth before all the first and second molars grow in.

As such, if there is not enough room for wisdom teeth, it is better to extract them so they do not put pressure on the surrounding ones. Additionally, wisdom teeth left in the mouth can lead to pain and infections.

What are the options for extractions?

If teeth break through the surface of the gums and are coming in straight, then we can remove them with traditional extraction techniques. Traditional techniques involve pulling the tooth out after we numb the area surrounding the tooth. If the tooth is impacted or has yet to break through the surface of the gums, surgical extractions are necessary. In this case, the gum tissue will need to be cut open to expose the tooth.

After exposing the tooth, we can either lift the tooth out of the socket or break the tooth into pieces to remove each piece individually. Afterward, we will sufficiently clean the area, lay the gum tissue back down and suture the gums. We typically perform these surgical extractions are after a patient is put to sleep.

What is the recovery process like?

After a wisdom teeth extraction, one can expect for tenderness and swelling. To minimize this, use an ice pack or cold compress for 15 minutes every hour. Placing it on the face near where the area of the wisdom tooth can help to reduce swelling. Just be sure to use a paper towel or cloth so the ice does not directly touch the skin.

Additionally, ibuprofen is effective for reducing pain and swelling. We recommend that patients take a few days off work or school to avoid needing to communicate. It may be challenging to do so with the swelling, so this will allow for rest.

What can I eat afterward?

You need to avoid anything sharp or hard and stick with things like warm broth, yogurt, pudding and ice cream for a few days. Since your gums will be sore, you probably will not want much more than this. During a follow-up appointment, we will provide directions for when normal dietary habits can commence.

How do I learn more?

If you want to know more about a wisdom teeth extraction, what it is like, and if you need one, call our clinic and schedule an appointment. We can evaluate you and let you know what the best way to proceed is.

Request a dental appointment to dicuss wisdom teeth here: http://jamesesullivandds.com or call James E Sullivan DDS at (301) 248-8080 for an appointment in our Fort Washington dental office.