Table of contents
1. Why do wisdom teeth need to be extracted?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to grow in your mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. These teeth are located at the very back of your mouth and can cause some serious discomfort. While some people never have any trouble with their wisdom teeth, others need to have them removed. But why is that? Here, we’ll explain the reasons why you might need to have your wisdom teeth removed.
1.1. Not enough room for wisdom teeth to grow
The most common reason for wisdom teeth removal is impacted wisdom teeth. This happens when there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to grow or erupt properly. When a wisdom tooth grows in impacted, it may be tilted at a 45 or 90 degree angle to the tooth next to it (the second molar), or it may grow out of the jaw.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a number of problems. For example, they can damage other teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can push against the second molars, causing damage and potentially leading to infection.
1.2. Infection and tooth decay
Wisdom teeth can also lead to infections because they are located deep in the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria, causing gum disease and abscesses.
1.3. Cysts or tumors
A more serious problem can occur when a cyst or tumor forms around an impacted wisdom tooth. This can cause damage to the jawbone and healthy teeth. In some cases, removal of the tooth and cyst is necessary to prevent further bone loss.
1.4. Bite problems
Even if your wisdom teeth are not impacted, they may still need to be removed if your mouth is quite small and your teeth are too crowded. If they don't have enough room to grow properly, they can cause your other teeth to shift, disrupting their natural alignment and leading to problems with your bite.
1.5. Pain and discomfort
Finally, wisdom teeth may need to be removed simply because they cause discomfort or pain. This could be due to any of the problems mentioned above.
In summary, there are a number of reasons why you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed, from lack of room in your mouth and the risk of infection, to preventing damage to other teeth. It is important to remember that while some people may have no problems with their wisdom teeth, others will need to have them removed. Regular check-ups with your dentist will help monitor the health of your wisdom teeth and help decide whether or not they need to be removed.
Wisdom tooth x-ray
2. How long will the wisdom tooth extraction procedure take?
The answer depends on a number of factors, including the number of wisdom teeth that need to be removed, the complexity of the extraction, and the patient's overall health.
2.1. Number of wisdom teeth to be extracted
The first factor that will affect the length of the procedure is the number of wisdom teeth that need to be removed. If only one tooth needs to be removed, the procedure can take as little as 20-30 minutes. However, if all four wisdom teeth are removed, the procedure can take up to 2 hours. It is important to note that this estimate includes the time it takes for the anesthesia to take effect.
2.2. Complexity of extraction
The complexity of the extraction also plays a role in determining the length of the procedure. A simple wisdom tooth extraction where the tooth is fully erupted and in its normal position may take less time. However, a tooth that is buried in the gum tissue or bone or a tooth that is at an awkward angle may require surgery. tooth extraction more complicated. This may involve cutting the gums to expose the tooth, removing the bone around the tooth, and possibly breaking the tooth into pieces for removal. Such procedures tend to take longer, often extending the procedure to an hour or more per tooth.
2.3. Overall health of the patient
The patient's overall health can also affect the length of the procedure. For example, a patient with an underlying health condition may require additional steps or precautions during the procedure, which can extend the time it takes.
2.4. Recovery time
After extraction, the initial recovery process usually takes about 2 weeks. During this time, new bone and gum tissue will grow into the space where the wisdom tooth was. You will need to follow your dentist's aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth and quick recovery.
In part 4 below, we will explain more fully about the recovery process after wisdom teeth extraction.
In summary, the duration of a wisdom tooth extraction procedure can vary widely, from as little as 20 minutes for a simple extraction to several hours for a more complex one. It is best to discuss your specific situation with your Sakura dental surgeons so that a more accurate time estimate can be given based on your individual circumstances. It is important to remember that each patient is unique, and therefore each tooth extraction procedure is tailored to the patient’s specific needs and circumstances.
3. How much should I budget for wisdom teeth removal?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal can vary widely, depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, where you live, and the type of dental insurance you have.
At Sakura, we always discuss with you fully in advance all the estimated costs of the treatment process, and provide you with a suitable payment plan so that you can have your wisdom teeth extracted within your financial means, to avoid more serious and expensive dental problems later due to not having your wisdom teeth extracted in time.
4. How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
After wisdom teeth removal, recovery time can vary from person to person.
4.1. Initial recovery phase
The initial healing period usually lasts about one to two weeks after tooth extraction. During this time, you may experience swelling, pain, and discomfort in your mouth and jaw. These symptoms are completely normal and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications from your doctor.
For the first few days after the procedure, you will need to rest and avoid any strenuous activity that could dislodge the blood clot that has formed at the extraction site, leading to a painful condition known as dry socket. You should also stick to a soft diet to avoid irritating the extraction site.
4.2. Full recovery phase
Complete healing, when the extraction site is completely closed and back to normal, can take anywhere from three to four weeks. This time varies greatly depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the extraction, the number of teeth removed, and your overall health.
4.3. Factors that may affect your recovery time
Several factors can affect your recovery time after wisdom teeth removal.
- Complexity of tooth extraction: If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted and easily accessible, your recovery may be quicker than if your teeth are impacted or require a more complex surgical procedure.
- Your age: Younger patients tend to recover more quickly than older adults.
- Your overall health: If you are in good health, your recovery may be faster. Conversely, if you have underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system, your recovery may take longer.
- Oral hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean after tooth extraction is important to prevent infection and promote healing.
4.4. Some ways to speed up recovery
While you can't control all the factors that affect your recovery time, there are things you can do to speed up the healing process.
- Follow your dentist's post-operative instructions: This may include taking prescription medications, applying ice to reduce swelling, avoiding certain foods and strenuous activities as outlined above.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to clean the extraction site and prevent infection.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating nutrient-rich foods can promote healing. Eat soft foods for the first few days after surgery.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol: Both can slow wound healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Rest and hydrate: Getting enough sleep and staying hydrated can aid recovery.
In summary, while the initial recovery time after wisdom teeth removal is typically one to two weeks, full healing can take up to six months. You should follow your doctor's instructions and listen to your body, allowing it to rest during the recovery process.
5. Can I eat anything after wisdom tooth extraction?
After wisdom teeth removal, your dentist will likely provide you with a list of dietary recommendations.
5.1. Immediately after extraction
Immediately after wisdom teeth removal, you should avoid solid foods, hot drinks, and alcohol. The anesthetic used during surgery will numb your mouth and you may accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. Drinking hot drinks can also burn your mouth because you may not be able to accurately gauge the temperature due to numbness.
5.2. After 24 to 48 hours
For the first 24 to 48 hours after wisdom teeth removal, your diet should consist mainly of liquids and soft foods. This can include foods such as yogurt, pudding, soup (eaten warm, not hot); you can also have smoothies and protein shakes, but make sure they are not too cold and do not contain any particles or debris that could get stuck in the extraction site.
Remember to avoid using a straw when consuming these liquids as the suction can dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site.
5.3. After 72 hours and beyond
After 72 hours, you can start introducing semi-soft foods into your diet. Foods like mashed potatoes, eggs, or pasta can be consumed freely. As the healing process progresses, you can add more solid foods, but make sure to keep them small and easy to chew.
Until your tooth is completely healed, which can take up to two weeks, avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or chewy foods that may irritate the extraction site. Also, stay away from alcohol and caffeine, as they can hinder the healing process.
