Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What to Expect in Boynton Beach
Are you experiencing pain in the back of your mouth? Maybe your dentist mentioned something about impacted wisdom teeth? Don’t worry; we get it. Getting your wisdom teeth pulled can seem intimidating, but understanding the process can make it much easier. We’re here to walk you through what you can expect with wisdom teeth extraction at Dorris Dental in Boynton Beach.
Why Wisdom Teeth Extractions Are Common
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge in your late teens or early twenties. Unfortunately, many of us don’t have enough room in our mouths for them. This can lead to problems like:
- Impaction: The wisdom teeth get stuck and can’t fully erupt.
- Pain: As they try to push through, they can cause discomfort.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, leading to infection.
- Damage to other teeth: They can push against your other molars, causing shifting or damage.
Because of these potential issues, wisdom teeth extraction is often recommended. Extractions can prevent future problems and protect your overall oral health.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process at Dorris Dental
Here’s what you can generally expect when you come to Dorris Dental, located at 12658 S Military Trl Suite 104, Boynton Beach, FL 33436, for your wisdom teeth extraction:
- Consultation and Exam: We’ll start with a thorough exam, including X-rays, to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. This helps us determine the best extraction approach for you. You can also use this time to understand dental x-ray safety with one of our qualified professionals.
- Anesthesia: We’ll discuss anesthesia options with you to ensure your comfort during the procedure. This could be local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your needs and preferences.
- Extraction: The extraction process involves gently removing the wisdom teeth. In some cases, the teeth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal. Our skilled dentists, including Dr. Brenda Schobert, Dr. Khalid Aldorri, and Dr. Safa Alathari, use gentle techniques to minimize discomfort.
- Post-operative Care: After the extraction, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth to promote healing and prevent infection.
What to Expect After Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction
It’s important to follow our post-operative instructions carefully for a smooth recovery. Here’s what you can anticipate:
- Swelling and Bruising: It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising around the extraction sites. Applying ice packs can help reduce swelling.
- Pain: We’ll prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours. Bite down gently on gauze pads to help stop the bleeding.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods for the first few days, such as yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
- Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with salt water to keep the extraction sites clean. Avoid brushing directly on the extraction sites for the first few days.
Common Concerns After Wisdom Teeth Removal
We know you might be worried about potential complications. While complications are rare, it’s good to be aware of them:
- Dry Socket: This occurs when the blood clot dislodges from the extraction site, causing pain. Contact us immediately if you suspect you have a dry socket.
- Infection: Signs of infection include increased pain, swelling, redness, and pus. We can prescribe antibiotics to treat infection.
- Nerve Damage: In rare cases, nerve damage can occur, leading to numbness or tingling in the lip, chin, or tongue. This is usually temporary.
FAQ About Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Is wisdom teeth extraction painful?
With anesthesia, you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. You will likely experience some discomfort after the extraction, but pain medication can help manage it.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery time varies, but most people feel significantly better within a week. Complete healing can take several weeks or months.
What should I eat after wisdom teeth extraction?
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction sites.
When can I brush my teeth after wisdom teeth extraction?
You can brush your teeth gently the day after the extraction, but avoid brushing directly on the extraction sites for the first few days. Rinse your mouth with salt water after brushing.
How much does wisdom teeth extraction cost?
The cost of wisdom teeth extraction varies depending on the complexity of the case, the type of anesthesia used, and your insurance coverage. We can provide you with a cost estimate during your consultation. We also offer insurance and financing options to make your dental work more accessible.
We understand that the thought of getting your wisdom teeth extracted can be a little nerve-wracking, but we’re committed to making the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible here at Dorris Dental. Whether you need a tooth extracted, or are seeking ways to improve your smile, we can help. If you’re experiencing wisdom tooth pain or have been told you need them removed, don’t hesitate to reach out. Give us a call at 561-677-9080 or schedule an appointment today so we can evaluate your situation and discuss the best course of action for your oral health.
Hopefully, this has answered some of your initial questions. We’re committed to providing quality dental care to our neighbors in Boynton Beach. We hope to see you soon to discuss your individual needs concerning your wisdom teeth extraction.
