Wisdom Teeth Removal Ottawa
Wisdom Tooth Removal at The Teal Umbrella
Wisdom teeth usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25. Even before that, you or your child may feel them below the surface, pushing against the gums. In some cases, wisdom teeth come in correctly, and do not cause problems. Often, however, they are impacted, blocked from fully emerging by a tooth or other obstruction, and they need to be removed.
At The Teal Umbrella, we carefully evaluate your or your child’s wisdom teeth for signs that they may need to be removed during our routine exams. We carefully monitor the teeth as they come in, checking for any signs of swelling or impacting.
Usually, wisdom teeth become a problem when the patient’s jaw is not large enough to accommodate them. Impacted teeth can crowd the teeth already in your jaw, pushing them forward and disrupting their alignment. They can also cause more serious health issues, such as decay and the development of cysts.
When Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Usually, the removal of wisdom teeth is done to prevent future problems from occurring. As your (or your child’s) wisdom teeth come in, we carefully monitor them for signs that they may become impacted. If we anticipate future problems, we often recommend removing the teeth as soon as possible. The reason for this is that, as teeth grow in and become more securely attached to the jaw, the removal becomes more difficult. Furthermore, the sooner the teeth are removed, the quicker the patient can recover. That being said, if wisdom teeth start to cause problems later in life, we may recommend that they be removed. As with braces, there is no age limit on wisdom teeth removal.
Having Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
It is not uncommon for patients facing wisdom teeth surgery to feel a little worried about the procedure. Here is a brief overview of the procedure as well as after care to make your extractions seem less daunting.
Comfort
The first thing you should know is that there are a number of sedation options available to make your procedure as comfortable as possible. You can choose between an IV, oral or laughing gas to provide you with the anesthesia you need so your procedure is completely pain free. The type of sedation you choose can also help keep you feeling less anxious. Your dentist can discuss your options and help you find the one that will be best for you.
The Procedure
The procedure itself can admittedly sound a little intimidating. Keep in mind your dentist is an expert at teeth extractions and will take every precaution to ensure you are comfortable as well as experience a quick recovery. The extractions involve your dentist accessing your wisdom teeth through your gums. Your teeth are attached with periodontal ligament which your dentist will manipulate in order to remove the teeth. The teeth are then removed and stitches are used to seal your gums. In most cases your dentist will use dissolvable sutures that will not require removal. You will require a drive home as you will still be a little woozy from the sedation.
Recovery Time
Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and/or pain medications following your surgery. This will help avoid infection as well as keep you comfortable for the first day or so. The good news is that all of the symptoms you experience following your surgery will improve day by day. The first day you will have gauze placed at the extraction sites to help ease the bleeding. It is important to know the bleeding is normal and will subside by the next day. It does help to remain slightly elevated to avoid heavier bleeding. Your dentist will also explain how to change the gauze safely. Swelling is also expected and can be alleviated with ice packs on your cheeks for the first day. In order to experience an easy recovery you should avoid the following:
Smoking
Avoid smoking as it can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
Using a Straw
Avoid using a straw for the first few days to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
Touching the Extraction Sites
Do not touch the extraction sites with your tongue or finger to avoid infection.
Solid Foods
Avoid solid foods for the first few days to allow for proper healing.
Follow Instructions
Follow your post-op instructions and you will be back to normal in no time.
The Teal Umbrella Difference
Because The Teal Umbrella is a fully outfitted dental surgery, we can offer Ottawa patients in-clinic wisdom teeth removal – we don’t have to refer you to a specialist. Once the procedure is done, you’ll be prescribed painkillers that you will take over the proceeding weeks. While you heal, we will periodically contact you to check-in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No, they don’t. Some wisdom teeth can stay put without having to be extracted. In fact, for many people, wisdom teeth don’t have to be removed. As long as they grow in properly, don’t impact the jaw or nearby teeth, and are healthy, they won’t cause any harm and can stay in your mouth.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No, they don’t. Some wisdom teeth can stay put without having to be extracted. In fact, for many people, wisdom teeth don’t have to be removed. As long as they grow in properly, don’t impact the jaw or nearby teeth, and are healthy, they won’t cause any harm and can stay in your mouth.
How long does it typically take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
After undergoing wisdom teeth removal, it will typically take at least three days for the swelling, pain and discomfort to subside. It will take a few weeks for your mouth to fully heal, so it’s important to be gentle with it and keep it clean.
When do wisdom teeth require extraction?
Wisdom teeth need to be removed when they are impacted, meaning they are trapped in the gums or jawbone as they are growing. For some patients who have smaller mouths and crowding, there is less room for the teeth to grow, which can force them to be positioned in awkward angles. In these situations, the teeth will need to be removed so they won’t cause pain or ruin the alignment of other teeth.
Are wisdom teeth like regular teeth?
Wisdom teeth are located in the very back of the mouth and are the third set of molars. Unlike our regular adult teeth, these tend to grow around the ages of 17 to 25. They use to serve a purpose for our ancestors, as they were used to chew and consume rudimentary diets of meat, leaves and other items. But today, they’re pretty useless. Thanks to our modern variety of softer foods, we don’t need them.
When is the best time to get wisdom teeth removed?
Once your wisdom teeth start to appear, they should be removed as soon as possible if they begin to cause pain or if your mouth does not have enough room for them. Your dentist will monitor and advise you on the best course of action for this.
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