Are you experiencing pain in the back of your mouth? Are your gums swollen and tender? It could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are trying to make an appearance. Wisdom teeth typically appear between the ages of 17-25, but not everyone experiences them. If you do have them, they can cause discomfort and even lead to more severe problems if left unattended. Everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal in Houston – from the procedure itself to recovery tips – so you can feel confident and informed about what lies ahead.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the back of your mouth. They’re the last teeth to come in, and they usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but it’s not uncommon to have fewer or none at all.
Wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems if they don’t erupt properly or if they become impacted (stuck beneath the gum line). Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. They can also lead to cysts or tumors. In some cases, wisdom teeth removal is necessary to prevent these problems.
If you’re considering wisdom teeth removal, your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your mouth to determine if the procedure is necessary. X-rays are often used to assess the position of impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is typically performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and patients can typically return to their normal activities within a few days.
Why do Wisdom Teeth need to be removed?
The most common reason for wisdom teeth removal is because they are impacted, meaning they are stuck and growing in at an angle. When this happens, it can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth. Other reasons to remove wisdom teeth include:
- They are crowding other teeth
- They are growing in at the wrong angle and pushing on other teeth
- They are causing pain or infection
- They are decayed or damaged
- You have braces and they are getting in the way
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Dentists typically recommend that wisdom teeth be removed between the ages of 16 and 18, while the roots are still developing and the teeth are easier to remove. However, there are a few exceptions to this general rule. If your wisdom teeth are causing pain or crowding other teeth, your dentist may recommend removing them sooner. On the other hand, if your wisdom teeth are healthy and not causing any problems, you may not need to have them removed at all.
Wisdom teeth removal process
Wisdom teeth removal is a fairly straightforward process that can be completed in a single visit to the dentist. The first step is to numb the area around the wisdom tooth with a local anesthetic. This will help to minimize any discomfort during the procedure. Next, the tooth will be loosened with a small amount of force and removed from the mouth. Any remaining debris will be cleaned out of the socket and a gauze pad will be placed over the area to control any bleeding. You may experience some mild discomfort and swelling after the procedure, but this can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Recovery after wisdom teeth removal
After having your wisdom teeth removed, it is important to take care of yourself and follow the instructions given to you by your oral surgeon. This will help ensure a speedy and successful recovery. Here are some tips for recovery after wisdom teeth removal:
- Take it easy: Rest is important after any surgery, and wisdom teeth removal is no different. Avoid physical activity for at least 24 hours after your surgery.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids will help keep your mouth clean and prevent dehydration. Sip on water or suck on ice chips frequently throughout the day.
- Pain relief: You will likely experience some discomfort after your surgery. Take the pain medication prescribed by your oral surgeon as needed. Apply a cold compress to your face for 20 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling.
- Eat soft foods: Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first few days after surgery. Gradually add other gentle foods back into your diet as you start feeling better. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate your surgical site.
Houston’s best wisdom teeth removal dentist
Dr. Rubab Mirza is an experienced wisdom teeth removal dentist in Houston, TX. Dr. Rubab Mirza and her team at Naba Dental are dedicated to providing patients with the best possible experience when it comes to wisdom teeth removal. They offer a variety of services to their patients, including sedation options and payment plans. They also have a convenient online booking system so that you can schedule your appointment at a time that works for you.
If you’re looking for a wisdom teeth removal dentist in Houston, TX, look no further than Dr. Rubab Mirza!
Tips for a successful wisdom teeth removal
1. Don’t wait too long to get your wisdom teeth removed. The longer you wait, the more complicated the procedure can become.
2. Find a good oral surgeon who has experience performing wisdom teeth removal.
3. Make sure you are healthy before having the procedure done. Wisdom teeth removal is a serious surgery and it’s important to be in good general health beforehand.
4. Be prepared for some discomfort after the surgery. You will likely have some swelling and pain afterwards, but this is normal and will subside within a few days.
5. Follow your oral surgeon’s instructions for after-care. This will likely include eating soft foods, taking prescribed pain medication, and avoiding smoking or drinking.
6. Rest and relax as much as possible after the surgery. This will help speed up the healing process.
7. Keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth gently and using an antiseptic rinse regularly to prevent infection.
