If you recently learned that you need a wisdom tooth extraction, you may feel anxious or uneasy. This is normal for any dental or medical procedure. We find that our patients usually feel more reassured once they learn what to expect and how to prepare for wisdom tooth extraction.
Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to appear, usually coming in during the late teen to early adult years. Not everyone gets wisdom teeth, but those who do often have them extracted for a variety of reasons. Your dentist may suggest an extraction if:
Informed consent is one of the first steps towards preparing for any procedure. Take the opportunity to ask your dentist or oral surgeon any questions you may have. Many patients find it helpful if they write down their questions, so they remember to ask them during an appointment.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
According to WebMD, a wisdom tooth extraction usually takes around 45 minutes. Depending on the situation, the dentist may administer a local or general anesthetic so you don’t feel pain. A wisdom tooth extraction is an outpatient procedure so you will recover at home.
Depending on the anesthetic you may be too drowsy to drive home. Try to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home. You may experience swelling during the first few days after the extraction.
Here are a few tips to help you recover during the first few days after your extraction:
There are also a few things to avoid during your recovery:
Wisdom tooth extractions are a common procedure and many patients experience no serious complications. However, no procedure is without risk. Some possible short or long term complications include:
Call your dental practice about any of these complications.
It is normal to feel uneasy or anxious about a procedure. Be aware for most people, a successful extraction saves them from future pain and infection. Once you understand what to expect, you may feel a little less nervous.
If not, talk about your feelings with your dentist. You may also want to talk about it with a partner, family member, a close friend, or therapist. Everyone processes their feelings in different ways.
In the days or weeks leading up to your extraction, take time to relax and clear your mind. Some people find yoga helps, others prefer a hike in nature, still others like a hot bath while reading a good book. As long as it doesn’t cause additional pain, seek out activities that help you relax. The relaxation may help soothe your nerves in preparation for the procedure. As much as possible reduce other sources of stress so you can focus on recovery.
You may need to take it easy for 3-4 days. This may be a good time to make sure your Netflix queue is filled with films or programs you want to watch. Prepare a comfortable and cozy area where you can relax. For example, some patients like to place cushions and a blanket on their sofa. If the space feels inviting, it may help you relax and recover.
Since you will need to eat soft foods, stock up on some of your favorites. Pasta, cottage cheese, smoothies, and soups are all good options. Also, make sure you have water and other fluids on hand to help you stay hydrated.
Since you may experience swelling, have ice packs ready to apply.
We hope this post helped you on how to prepare for wisdom tooth extraction. If you are reading this because you are experiencing pain, be sure to contact your dentist about your concerns. If you are a North Carolina resident seeking dental care, feel free to call Southview Dentistry for an appointment.