Common Issues and Extraction Procedures
Wisdom teeth extractions are routine procedures due to common issues they present. These teeth often encounter difficulties as they attempt to emerge through the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth, for instance, occur when the tooth grows in at an angle rather than straight through the gum line. This can result in discomfort, uneven emergence, or partial tooth exposure.
Managing Partially Erupted Wisdom Teeth
When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges, a flap of skin known as an operculum may develop over it. This can impede proper cleaning, leading to food debris getting trapped underneath, increasing the risk of infection, known as pericoronitis. While pericoronitis typically resolves on its own, it often causes swelling and pain in the affected area. Impacted and problematic wisdom teeth, such as those prone to infections, typically require extraction. Extraction procedures can vary from removing a single tooth to extracting all four wisdom teeth simultaneously. Depending on the dentist's or patient's preference, local anesthesia may be administered to numb the extraction sites, or the patient may opt for general anesthesia to undergo sedation during the procedure.
Procedure and Post-Surgical Care
Wisdom tooth extraction typically involves cutting open the gum tissue surrounding the tooth to reveal it. The tooth is then loosened by firmly gripping it and gently wiggling it back and forth until it can be lifted out of the gums. In cases where the tooth is tightly impacted, it may need to be broken into pieces before removal. Depending on the incision and extraction site, sutures may be necessary to close the area, with soluble sutures often preferred for their ability to dissolve on their own.
Following surgery, rest is essential, and it's important to have someone drive you home due to anesthesia. Expect some bleeding from the extraction site initially, which can be managed by changing gauze as needed. If bleeding persists beyond 24 hours, contacting your dentist is advisable. While resting, avoid lying flat, as this could prolong bleeding; instead, prop your head up with pillows. Pain medication prescribed by your dentist should be taken as directed, and an ice pack can help alleviate discomfort. Your dentist in Pocatello, ID, may also provide a cleaning solution for the extraction site.
Soft Foods Recommended After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
We will be more than happy to submit all insurance forms for you and help you recover the most from your benefits. We will do everything we can to help you afford the treatment you need and want. For patients who require major work, a complete payment plan is designed with an appropriate payment schedule. Forms of payment accepted by the office are check, cash, or any major credit card.
Following your surgery, it's advised to stick to soft foods for several days. Some recommended options include:
- Gelatin
- Pudding
- Yogurt
- Mashed Potatoes
- Ice Cream
- Thin Soups
- And other foods that can be eaten without chewing.
When drinking, avoid using a straw as the sucking motion may loosen sutures and slow clotting. Similarly, refrain from smoking for the same reason. If you experience prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or feel that the extraction site isn't healing properly, contact your dentist for a follow-up.
