Wisdom teeth removal in Atherton, CA

The recovery time for a wisdom tooth extraction varies, but most people can expect the following timeline:

• First 24 hours: Blood clot forms in the socket, some bleeding and swelling are common.
• Days 2 to 3: Swelling and discomfort peak, then begin to subside.
• 1 Week later: Most of the swelling and bruising resolves; stitches (if any) may be removed.
• 2 Weeks later: Full recovery for the gum tissue, although deeper healing continues for a few months.

Tips for Faster Recovery:

• Rest and limit physical activity.
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Follow your dentist's instructions on medication and oral hygiene.

These are similar to the recovery tips for dental implants.

Wisdom teeth extraction is not always necessary. The decision depends on several factors:

• Impacted teeth: If the teeth are trapped in the jawbone or gums and cannot emerge normally.
• Crowding: If there is not enough room in the mouth, causing misalignment of other teeth.
• Decay or gum disease: If wisdom teeth are difficult to clean and become decayed or infected.
• Cysts or tumors: If they form around the impacted teeth.

When is wisdom teeth extraction not necessary?

• When wisdom teeth are healthy.
• When wisdom teeth are fully erupted and properly aligned.
• When wisdom teeth do not interfere with bite or cause any dental problems.

Wisdom tooth extraction is generally not very painful due to the use of anesthesia. Pain management includes:

• During the procedure: Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia ensures you feel no pain.
• After the procedure: Pain and discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain relievers, over-the-counter medications, and ice packs.

Post-extraction pain varies from person to person and how a patient views it. It typically includes swelling, tenderness, and mild pain for a few days.

Signs that your wisdom teeth may need to be extracted include:

• Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth.
• Swelling: Swelling around the jaw or gums.
• Infection: Recurring infections or cysts.
• Crowding: Teeth are shifting or crowding.
• Impaction: X-rays show that teeth are trapped in the jawbone or gums.‍
• Decay or gum disease: Difficulty in cleaning, leading to cavities or gum disease.

The timeline for resuming normal eating habits after wisdom teeth removal is as follows:

• First 24 Hours: Stick to liquids and soft foods like yogurt and broths.
• 2-3 Days after wisdom teeth surgery: Gradually introduce soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies.
• 1 Week after wisdom teeth surgery: Most people can start eating more solid foods, but avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods.‍
• 2 Weeks after wisdom teeth surgery: Generally, normal eating habits can resume, but it's important to follow your dentist's advice.

Whether you are put to sleep for wisdom tooth removal depends on the complexity of the extraction and your preference:

• Local anesthesia: Numbs the area around the tooth; you remain awake but feel no pain.
• Sedation anesthesia: Administered through an IV; you remain conscious but relaxed and drowsy.‍
• General anesthesia: You are put to sleep for the duration of the procedure. This is used by our Atherton dental team for complex cases or patient preferences.

Having all four wisdom teeth removed at once is a common practice and can be beneficial:

• Advantages:some text
  • One recovery period instead of multiple.
  • Reduced overall time off from work or school.
  • More efficient use of anesthesia.
• Disadvantages:some text
  • More significant initial swelling and discomfort.
  • Potential for increased bleeding and longer recovery compared to extracting one or two at a time.

Yes, wisdom teeth removal is considered a surgical procedure, especially if the teeth are impacted. The surgery involves:

• Incisions: Cutting the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone.
• Bone removal: Removing bone blocking access to the tooth root if necessary.
• Tooth extraction: Removing the tooth, sometimes in pieces.‍
• Stitching: Stitches may be used to close the wound and promote healing.

The number of wisdom teeth to be removed at once depends on individual circumstances:

• All four wisdom teeth at once are commonly removed to minimize multiple recovery periods and use of anesthesia.
• One or two wisdom teeth at a time may be preferred if only some teeth are problematic and if a patient’s medical condition warrants a more cautious approach.

Our Atherton family dental professionals will make their recommendations based on X-rays and oral examinations. Our Atherton dental team will also consider a patient’s health and preferences.

By following these guidelines and consulting with your dentist, you can ensure the best approach for wisdom tooth extraction and recovery.