Wisdom
teeth are called wisdom teeth because they usually appear in a person’s
life when he or she is maturing, between ages 15 and 21. History hasn’t
shown, however, any direct linkage between the presence of wisdom teeth
and any increase in someone’s intelligence. It is very important to
know about Wisdom tooth extraction aftercare.
It’s
almost become a rite of passage for teens and young adults to have
their wisdom teeth extracted. This is mainly because wisdom teeth have a
tendency to become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth are unable to erupt
into the mouth and stay below the gum line. This can cause strain to the
ligaments, muscles and joints in the jaw. The most common reason for
wisdom teeth becoming either totally or partially impacted is due to a
lack of space in the back of the mouth for another set of teeth.
Following the extraction procedure, taking care of your mouth while it heals is extremely important.
Here are a few things you need to know about wisdom tooth extraction aftercare:
Oral hygiene is a must after the removal of your wisdom tooth. The affected area has to be kept clean at all times, so that no germs or bacteria settle there and cause infections or even a very painful dental abscess. You will be given post-surgery care instructions. One instruction will probably include rinsing with salt water or baking soda water for the first 24 hours instead of brushing. Avoid using acidic or alcohol-based mouthwashes and rinses as they can dry out your mouth and actually make a better environment for bacteria to grow.
You should avoid smoking after wisdom teeth removal or any mouth surgery for that matter. Smoking reduces blood flow which is crucial to supply the healing area with oxygen. Lack of blood flow can slow healing progress. Smoking also requires a sucking technique that can dislodge the blood clot from the extraction site which is necessary to protect the area while it heals.
Your dentist will also likely prescribe an antibiotic that you will need to take for the first 10 to 14 days following the procedure. This antibiotic when taken properly will ensure that no infection occurs. There is a risk with any surgery of an infection.
You will need to maintain a soft diet for at least the first few days following the surgery. Soft foods include scrambled eggs, soft pasta, soup, jello, yogurt, etc. Avoid eating anything sticky, drinking liquids from a straw, and anything extremely hot or extremely cold. You may find that your jaw muscles are sore following the extraction and they will need time to heal. Soft, non-sticky foods will also be easier to clean away from the surgical sites.
Wisdom teeth removal is not as complex as it may sound and there is no need to fear the process. Call Flowers Dentistry in Anthem, Phoenix, now at (623) 552-5120, and let Dr. Flowers answer all your questions.
