Is your child finishing high school, and about to enter college, university or trade school? Don’t let the pain and discomfort of wisdom teeth eruption disrupt their studies.
Erupting wisdom teeth can cause pain and headaches, so we recommend dealing with them before they become a problem. Most wisdom teeth can be easily removed under local anesthetic in the dental chair – and it’s a similar experience to getting a filling.
Wisdom teeth extractions are best performed on young adults – under 24 years old – because their bones have not yet become rigid. This makes it easy to remove the wisdom teeth from their jaws, and means it isn’t usually necessary for them to undergo the procedure in a general anesthetic facility.
Make the smart decision by putting an end to wisdom teeth pain – or preventing it before it even starts. Contact Aponia Dental today to learn more about wisdom teeth removal.
Q. Am I prescribed drugs after my wisdom teeth extraction?
Q: When do I begin taking the drugs?
A: On the day BEFORE your wisdom teeth extraction, you must begin taking the antibiotics and the anti-inflammatory medication three times daily. On the morning of your surgery, you will take your antibiotic, your anti-inflammatory medication, and your pain medication. You will continue to take all three medications every 6-8 hours after surgery (with food and fluids).
Q: Am I allowed to eat the morning of my surgery?
A: Yes – in fact, we require you to eat the morning of your surgery, about 2-3 hours beforehand. We need your blood sugar levels to be healthy, due to the medications you are taking. Eating before surgery will help you feel better, as well.
Q: Is there anything I need to tell the dentist before having my wisdom teeth taken out?
A: You must inform your dentist if you are taking any medication (such as blood thinners) that might compromise your blood’s ability to clot. You must also tell your dentist if you have diabetes, as that could increase your risk of infection. Your dentist needs to know if you have any drug allergies or sensitivities (specifically to Penicillin, Motrin, or Tylenol #3 with codeine). Bring your medical history with you, and discuss it with your dentist.
Q: When will I be able to go back to work/school after having my wisdom teeth extracted?
A: You may want to stay home from school/work for 1-3 days after the procedure to rest and recover. We can provide a note for your school/job at no charge so that your teachers/supervisors understand you are recovering from your wisdom teeth extraction.
Q: What can I expect after the procedure?
A: After your wisdom teeth have been extracted, maintain firm pressure on your gauze until the bleeding stops. Take your medications as directed, with food and fluids. You are allowed to eat soft foods and are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids. Do not smoke or drink through a straw, as it may dislodge the blood clot and cause a painful condition called “dry socket.” Don’t touch your wound (by poking it with either your fingers or your tongue). Rest quietly and avoid physical activity for the first 24 hours. Do not rinse your mouth out for 24 hours immediately following the surgery. After 24 hours, if there is no bleeding, you may rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
Q: What can I eat after my wisdom teeth extraction?
A: We recommend soft, nutritious foods such as eggs, soup, oatmeal, applesauce, and yogurt. It’s very important to drink plenty of fluids, such as juice, milk and water. Just remember NOT to drink through a straw, as it may dislodge the blood clot and cause a painful condition called “dry socket.”
Q: Are there any side effects?
A: After your procedure, there are several possible side effects. You may feel some pain or discomfort, but your medication should keep you fairly comfortable – if it does not, please contact our dental office. You can expect a small amount of bleeding in the first 24 hours. If you seem to be bleeding excessively, keep your head elevated, fold a clean piece of gauze (or use a teabag) and put firm pressure on the area. If you experience swelling, you can apply a cold (NOT hot) compress on the outside of your face (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off). You may have a low-grade fever for 2-3 days, but if it persists longer than that, please contact the practice. Less frequent side effects include bone splinters, numbness, or incomplete removal or tooth fragments.
Q: I think I have dry socket – what do I do?
A: “Dry socket” is when you lose a blood clot in the healing area, and it causes significant pain in your jaw and ear. If you are experiencing a lot of jaw or ear pain, please contact the practice. Dry socket must be treated by the dentist. You can prevent dry socket by not smoking, not drinking with straws, and not poking at your wound.
