If you’re having trouble with your wisdom teeth, it may be time to consider an emergency wisdom tooth removal. However, the procedure is not without its risks. You need to be aware of the potential complications of the procedure, and how to prepare for the surgery.
Symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth
Wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset to your mouth, but they can also cause multiple problems if they are not cared for. They can exacerbate gum disease, and they may push against other teeth and sinuses, causing irritation.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of symptoms, from pain to swelling. If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to see your dentist for a consultation. This can be an opportunity to get your problem treated early, and prevent any other dental issues.
The most common symptom of an impacted wisdom tooth is painful discomfort. It is often caused by air entering the pocket created by the impacted tooth, allowing bacteria to grow and infect the area.
Other signs of an impacted wisdom tooth include red or swollen gums and tenderness in the jaw. Pain can be intense when chewing, and it can affect your ability to open and close your mouth.
Bacteria may grow in the gums, and if left untreated, it can lead to a painful infection. It can also damage nearby teeth and nerves.
Crowding in the teeth next to the impacted wisdom tooth can cause cavities. Oftentimes, these cavities cause an abscess, a painful, pus-filled hole at the gum. Some patients will also develop cysts, which can destroy the jawbone or nerves.
Sometimes, the pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can cause the neighboring molar to become infected. When the tooth is infected, antibiotics are prescribed before surgery.
Occasionally, impacted wisdom teeth are not painful. In these cases, the impacted wisdom tooth may not be able to meet the opposing molar and is left angled backwards or forwards. To help relieve this pressure, your dentist may recommend a mouthwash or a local anesthetic.
The impacted wisdom tooth may be hard to clean, and food can become trapped between the tooth and the tooth next to it. This can increase the risk of plaque and gingivitis. However, if your impacted wisdom tooth is removed, you will not have to worry about these symptoms.
There are over-the-counter oral care products that can help relieve the pain associated with an impacted tooth. A mouthwash or a warm salt water soak can be soothing to your gums.
Preparing for the procedure
Wisdom tooth removal can be a very uncomfortable experience. You may feel tired, groggy, and mouth sore. However, with proper preparation, you can have a comfortable and painless recovery.
A good place to start is by getting a prescription for the right pain reliever. Your doctor will give you an idea of what is available. For some people, over-the-counter options are the best bet.
In terms of recovery, you should plan on taking two days off work. This will give you time to relax and heal. During this week, you should also schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist.
The right diet will go a long way toward recovery. If possible, make sure to stick to soft foods for a couple weeks following the surgery. Harder foods can be added gradually. Also, avoid exercising or performing physically demanding activities for at least a few weeks.
Another good idea is to get an x-ray before your extraction. An x-ray can tell your doctor what you should do if your teeth have not healed properly.
One thing to note is that you will likely not be able to drive after your procedure. So, have a reliable driver on standby to pick you up.
To ensure a less painful recovery, wear loose clothing. Loose clothing can prevent blood vessels from compressing. And, it will help keep your heart rate at the appropriate level.
There are several good reasons to take the time to learn how to properly prepare for a wisdom tooth extraction. First, it can be an intimidating and stressful experience. Second, it may be the only solution to a problem. Third, it may be your only option to fix a health issue.
Make sure to ask your oral surgeon about the most effective way to do the task. Depending on the type of surgery you are having, you may not be able to do anything for a few hours. However, if you follow the above suggestions, you should be on your way to recovery in no time!
Of course, there are other things to consider, such as your general health. If you have chronic health conditions, you may have to take extra precautions to ensure you heal as quickly and safely as possible.
Recovery from the procedure
Recovery from emergency wisdom tooth removal can be a slow process. In some cases, it can take a week or two for the wound to heal completely. However, most people are able to return to normal activities in just a few days. Fortunately, there are several simple things you can do to speed the healing process.
Keeping your mouth clean is the best way to avoid a postoperative infection. You will need to brush your teeth gently, and you should never brush your teeth as hard as you normally would.
An antibacterial mouthwash can also help prevent infection. Use it at least a few times per day.
It’s important to keep the extraction site clean. This includes the gums and the surrounding area. Make sure you are rinsing with warm salt water and not plain tap water.
While you’re waiting for the wound to heal, try easing the discomfort with an ice pack. Apply it for at least 20 minutes at a time. Ice packs will reduce swelling and bleeding, and can also be used for any minor aches.
Be careful not to dislodge any of the stitches. Your dentist may be able to remove the stitches after a few days.
You can start to eat soft foods as soon as you’re comfortable. Then, gradually reintroduce solid foods. Soft foods include mashed vegetables, blended soups, and Jell-O. Avoid hot foods, which can irritate the surgical area.
Taking antibiotics will help prevent infections. If you notice any signs of an infection, you should contact your oral surgeon immediately. Depending on the severity of the infection, you may be advised to undergo additional procedures.
It’s normal to experience some bruising after the surgery. You may also have blood in your mouth. Take your medications as prescribed. Getting plenty of rest will help you recover.
The swelling you may experience after emergency wisdom tooth removal will begin to subside in a few days. A cold compress will also help to reduce swelling. As your body gets rid of the blood clot, you will feel more comfortable.
Remember to report any major bleeding or severe swelling to your oral surgeon.
Complications of an emergency wisdom tooth extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common dental procedures. However, it can be painful and sometimes lead to complications. Luckily, many of the common complications can be avoided. The following tips can help you avoid them.
The first complication to watch out for is infection. Infection can occur anywhere in the body, including the mouth. Therefore, it is important to check with your dentist to ensure you don’t have an infection. If you do, take the prescribed antibiotics.
Another complication is swelling. Swelling in the face, cheeks and jaw is common after a wisdom tooth extraction. This is caused by a combination of irritation and a bacterial attack.
You may also experience bruising, especially around the jaw area. After a couple of days, you should see a decrease in the pain and swelling.
Some people may experience numbness in the lip or tongue. Numbness can be permanent, so it’s important to talk to your dentist if you feel like you’re unable to function normally.
If your numbness doesn’t go away, it may be due to an infection. Call your doctor immediately to find out what you should do.
You may also develop a dry socket, which is a painful inflammation of the socket. If this happens, you’ll need to use medicated dressings for a week or two.
When you are recovering from an emergency wisdom tooth extraction, be sure to follow all instructions given by your dentist. These should include taking your prescribed medications and not putting pressure on the affected area. Also, avoid soft foods for three days. Taking antibiotics can prevent infections from happening during the surgery.
If you have a fever or any other symptoms, call your dentist right away. You may also notice pus or a bad taste in your mouth. An infection can spread and damage other teeth.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for your extraction site. Keep ice packs wrapped in a towel against your cheek. A warm salt water rinse can relieve discomfort as well.
You should also keep your mouth clean. Use mouthwash to wash away bacteria.