Are you experiencing discomfort or pain in the back of your mouth? It may be due to your wisdom teeth. While some wisdom teeth grow without issues, others cause some problems requiring extraction.
But why do they hurt in the first place? This post will cover the reasons behind wisdom tooth pain and provide tips for a smooth recovery after wisdom teeth removal in Plano.
Wisdom Tooth Pain
Wisdom tooth pain is a common dental problem that affects many people. The pain can be due to various factors such as impact, infection, decay, gum disease, etc.
The symptoms of wisdom tooth pain include throbbing pain in the back of the mouth, difficulty opening your mouth wide, or chewing food properly.
The wisdom teeth are at the back of the jaw, and sometimes they don’t have enough space to grow properly. When this happens, they may become impacted or erupt partially, which can cause pressure on nearby teeth leading to discomfort and swelling.
An infected wisdom tooth may also cause severe pain, swollen gums, and fever. In some cases, if left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems like abscesses or cysts.
It’s important to see a dentist if you’re experiencing wisdom tooth pain so they can diagnose the root cause and provide appropriate treatment options based on your individual needs.
Need wisdom teeth removal in Plano? Contact Chase Oaks Family Dentistry.
Why Should You Get Your Wisdom Tooth Extracted?
Having a wisdom tooth can be uncomfortable and often painful. This is because these third molars at the back of your mouth don’t always have enough space to grow properly, which can cause them to become impacted or infected.
In some cases, leaving an impacted or infected wisdom tooth untreated can lead to more serious dental problems like gum disease, cavities, and even cysts in the jawbone.
Not only does wisdom tooth extraction help prevent future dental issues from arising, but it can also relieve any pain you may currently be experiencing due to a problematic wisdom tooth.
Furthermore, undergoing a wisdom tooth extraction procedure while still young usually results in faster healing time and fewer complications than waiting until later when the roots are longer and more firmly anchored in your jawbone.
Find good dentists in Plano for your wisdom tooth extraction.
Pre-Procedure Care
Preparing for a wisdom tooth extraction can be nerve-wracking, but taking the necessary steps beforehand can help ease your anxieties and ensure a successful procedure. Here are some pre-procedure care tips to keep in mind.
- Inform your dentist about any medications you’re taking or medical conditions you may have. They will adjust your medication regimen accordingly.
- Arrange transportation before the day of your surgery, as you might not feel well enough to drive after the procedure.
- Eat light meals and avoid consuming alcohol 24 hours before the scheduled surgery. On the day of the procedure, refrain from eating or drinking anything for at least six hours prior.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your arms for intravenous (IV) lines.
Preparing ahead of time can help ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of your wisdom tooth extraction!
Post-Procedure Care
Aftercare for wisdom tooth extraction, caring for your mouth properly is essential to ensure a speedy and safe recovery.
The first 24 hours post-surgery are crucial, so make sure to follow these tips:
- Avoid disturbing the clot formed in the socket.
- Avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully, drinking through a straw, smoking, or consuming hot food and drinks.
- Apply ice packs on your cheeks in 20-minute intervals with breaks of at least ten minutes between them. This will help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Take any prescribed pain medications as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon; don’t skip doses even if you feel better.
- Stick to soft foods such as soups and mashed potatoes for the first few days after surgery, then gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet.
- Keep good oral hygiene practices, such as gently brushing your teeth twice daily but avoiding the surgical area until it fully heals.
- Rinse with a saltwater solution instead of regular mouthwash, which may irritate the site.
Following these steps during post-procedure care can minimize potential complications while promoting quick healing.
Tips on How to Manage Pain
Experiencing wisdom tooth pain can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. However, you can minimize discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery with the right care before and after your extraction procedure.
It’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine whether extraction is necessary. Before the procedure, follow pre-procedure care instructions.
Afterward, stick to post-procedure care guidelines, like resting for at least 24 hours after surgery and taking prescribed medications as directed.
If you experience pain during recovery despite these measures, some over-the-counter options can help manage discomfort, including ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Remember that while wisdom tooth extractions may seem daunting at first glance, they’re ultimately performed to provide relief from more serious issues down the line. With proper preparation and self-care afterward, one can manage any resulting pain.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery Timeline
The wisdom teeth removal recovery timeline can vary depending on the individual’s age, health, and how many teeth were extracted.
It takes about 7-10 days for the initial healing process to occur. During this time, you’ll need to rest as much as possible and avoid strenuous activities.
The first few days after surgery will likely be the most uncomfortable. You may experience swelling, pain, or bleeding. It’s important to keep your head elevated while resting to help reduce swelling.
After 24 hours after the surgery, you should start rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to promote healing and prevent infection.
Around day three or four, you may begin experiencing more intense pain and bruising around your jawline or neck area. This is normal, but you can use ice packs in these areas for relief.
By day seven, most people feel much better and can resume their normal routine activities if they feel up for it – but always check with your dentist first!
Do you need dental services in Plano? Contact Chase Oaks Family Dentistry for a consultation. Our qualified dentists can identify underlying dental issues and help you correct them before they worsen. Get in touch with us today.
