‘Wisdom teeth removal’ – just this phrase is enough to make your mouth hurt. But, do you really know what to expect during and after wisdom teeth removal procedure? It is such a simple and painless dental procedure. Taking the time to learn more about wisdom teeth removal will reduce your anxiety and help you prepare better for the procedure. Regardless of whether you are getting single or all your wisdom teeth removed, here is some information that will give you an inside look onto what you can expect with the procedure and its healing process.
Why do we have wisdom teeth?
Years ago, our ancestors had stronger jaw, and the wisdom teeth helped them to coarse foods like plants and raw meat. As they had no access to the great dental care that we have today, they lost teeth which allowed the third molars to have enough space to grow.
Our modern-day conundrum with small jaw size and the advanced dental care makes it less likely for our wisdom teeth to erupt properly into a functional position. This is the reason why most people have wisdom teeth removal.
How to prepare for wisdom teeth removal?
It is never fun to hear that you should have your wisdom teeth removed. However, there are some ways for you to prepare yourself for the procedure.
- Ask questions about the procedure. Remember, there are no stupid questions when it comes to wisdom teeth removal so ask any question that comes to your mind like what to expect following the procedure? How much will wisdom teeth removal cost? How many teeth should you get removed? How long will the procedure take? Should you fast before the surgery? What type of anaesthesia will be given to you during the procedure? Are there any paper works to be filled before the surgery? etc..
- Make sure to discuss your medical history with your dentist. Also, check if you will have to take any medications before the surgery and how soon you should start taking medications after the surgery.
- If your doctor suggests general anaesthesia, then make sure you have someone with you to drive you home after your appointment.
- Discuss with your surgeon if you are allergic to any medications.
- Check out if you will need to take any pain relieving medication prescriptions following the appointment.
- Also, before you had gone to the surgery ensure you have prepared a comfortable, safe and cosy recovery area.
Will I get anaesthesia during wisdom teeth removal?
Depending on how many wisdom teeth you have to be extracted and your comfort level with the procedure there are different types of anaesthesia the oral surgeon may administer.
Local anaesthesia:
It is administered near the extraction site to numb just the surrounding area which means you will be awake during the procedure. However you will not feel any pain or discomfort throughout the procedure, you will likely feel some pressure and movements.
General anaesthesia:
With general anaesthesia administered, you will be completely unconscious throughout the procedure. You won’t even remember the surgical procedure.