Our wisdom teeth, although essential for chewing, can often bring about a host of problems. These teeth typically don’t appear until late teens or early twenties due to their size being unsuitable for underdeveloped jaws in children. Unfortunately, they are prone to issues like infection, damage, and decay. Moreover, impacted wisdom teeth, which fail to emerge from the gums and grow at odd angles, can cause excruciating pain.
If you’re dealing with wisdom tooth problems, your dentist may suggest extraction as the only viable solution. Naturally, you’ll have questions about the procedure and the recovery process. For instance, how long should you use gauze after wisdom teeth removal? Allow us to answer that and more.
Table of Contents
What Does the Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure Entail?
While a trip to the dentist might not be your idea of fun, the good news is that wisdom tooth extraction is a routine and minimally invasive procedure. Your dentist or a skilled surgeon will perform the extraction. First, an X-ray will be taken to determine the seriousness of the issue and the appropriate course of action.
Afterward, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. Next, your dentist will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth, carefully remove it, and thoroughly clean the area to minimize the risk of infection. In case of an incision, dissolvable stitches may be used to close it. Your dentist might also place gauze over the extraction site and ask you to bite down on it to maintain pressure and stop bleeding.
How Long Should You Use Gauze After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
As mentioned, your dentist may position gauze over the extraction site to aid in preventing bleeding post-extraction. You will be required to bite down gently on the gauze, maintaining pressure for approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
After this time, remove the gauze and replace it with a fresh, clean piece if there is any ongoing bleeding. Ensure the gauze is directly on the extraction site and secure it in place. Keep the gauze in place for another hour, and bleeding should cease completely. If bleeding persists, repeat the process or consult your dentist for guidance.
What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Once you’ve gone through wisdom tooth removal, remember to follow these steps for the rest of the day:
- Do not spit.
- Do not smoke.
- Avoid using a drinking straw.
- Resist the urge to touch the surgical area to prevent infection caused by bacteria on your fingers.
How to Deal With Swelling
Expect some swelling on and around the affected area after wisdom tooth removal, which is perfectly normal. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the area.
What to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Eating and chewing need to be approached with caution after wisdom tooth extraction. Stick to soft foods and avoid hard and crunchy items. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent any discomfort.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital after tooth extraction to avoid infection. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water daily and spit it out. This practice helps keep the wound clean and free of harmful bacteria.
Medication
If you experience severe pain, consult your dentist for suitable painkillers. Remember not to exceed the recommended daily dosage.
Book Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction Now!
If your wisdom teeth are causing you distress, don’t endure the pain, take action. Contact us at Tuart Hill Dental, where we specialize in addressing wisdom tooth problems and other oral issues. Our qualified dentists, state-of-the-art equipment, and comfortable surroundings ensure exceptional care. We also offer flexible payment plans. Reach out to us now, and we’ll have you on the road to recovery in no time.
