Have you been feeling pain or tenderness in the rear of your mouth? Difficulty chewing? If you’re a teen or young adult, your wisdom teeth may be emerging. You might also be wondering, “When can I eat solid food after tooth extraction?” especially if you’re preparing for or recovering from removal.

Wisdom teeth are your third molars that develop later in life. Most people have four, one in each corner of their mouth. While wisdom teeth are a normal part of adulthood, many people experience issues like impaction or insufficient jaw space that make wisdom tooth removal a wise choice. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort as your wisdom teeth emerge, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your local dentist in Cedar Rapids to understand your options. 

Why are wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth aren’t extracted in every case, though people often suffer one or more of the following dental issues once they emerge:

• Impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth may not emerge normally. Sometimes they get trapped in your jaw or gums.
• Alignment. The molars may come in at the wrong angle, pressing against other teeth. In some cases, the jaw may be too small for the wisdom teeth. 
• Cavities or gum disease. Even if the teeth emerge normally, they’re far in the back of your mouth. This may make cleaning and flossing difficult, resulting in dental issues.

What to expect before wisdom tooth removal

Before you undergo any treatment or surgical procedure, your dentist will review your medical history, discuss your issues, and discuss anaesthesia options. It’s a good idea for patients to discuss any current health issues or medications they may be using. Wisdom tooth removal is a straightforward procedure for most people. But in rare cases, your dentist may mention the need for bone grafting and suggest adding affordable dental implants.

You should also feel free to ask any questions you have about the procedure, like the costs involved and recovery time. Be open and honest with your dentist about any questions or doubts you may have.

You may need to set up childcare, pet care, or time off from work or school, depending on your circumstances. It’s a good idea to arrange for transportation to and from your surgery, as you may still feel the aftereffects of your anaesthesia once the procedure is complete.

What to expect during wisdom tooth removal

Routine wisdom tooth removal procedures typically take under an hour. However, complex extractions may take longer. The dentist will administer either local or general anaesthesia. This may involve inhaling through a gas mask, having an IV inserted, or an injection at the site of the surgery.

Your dentist or oral surgeon may cut through your gums to extract the tooth if necessary. However, extraction may be easy enough with forceps if the tooth has emerged. In cases of surgery, the dentist will clean the site and may add stitches, which will most likely dissolve on their own within a few weeks.

What to expect after a tooth extraction

After a wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist will provide a list of care instructions. They usually include tips for managing pain, suggestions for rest and dietary recommendations (soft foods and liquids). It’s best to stay away from alcohol or cigarettes while you recover. Your doctor may also prescribe medication. After a wisdom tooth extraction, try these tips to help with a smooth recovery:

• Use ice packs to reduce swelling and manage pain
• Keep your head elevated when you sleep
• Avoid using straws to prevent dry sockets
• Brush your teeth gently and avoid the wisdom tooth area for a while
• Stay hydrated and get plenty of sleep

Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.