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Most people develop wisdom teeth in early adulthood. Many people choose to get their wisdom teeth removed to prevent them from causing problems later in life. If you are considering wisdom teeth removal, use these tips to ensure that the procedure and recovery go as smoothly as possible.

Wisdom Teeth Removal: Earlier Is Better

Many dentists recommend getting your wisdom teeth removed before they start causing problems. The earlier you can get your wisdom teeth removed, the less chance they will have to become impacted, infected, or to affect your other teeth through crowding. The root of the tooth is also less fully formed in younger people, which can make the extraction process easier.

If your wisdom teeth erupt fully from the gums, have a straight alignment, do not contribute to overcrowding, and cause you no pain, then you do not have to get them removed. However, for many people the alignment of the wisdom teeth is imperfect and there is not enough space in the mouth for them to exist without crowding the other teeth. If this is your situation, then removal is likely to be the best option.

Choose an Oral Surgeon Over a Dentist

Both oral surgeons and dentists can remove wisdom teeth, but there are several reasons why an oral surgeon might be the better choice.

First, oral surgeons are more accustomed to dealing with complicated extractions. That means they are sure to know what to do if your wisdom teeth turn out to be impacted and difficult to remove.

Second, oral surgeons are often able to offer you a greater range of sedation options. That’s great news if you are anxious about the procedure, as you’ll have the option of sleeping through it or having IV sedation to make you calm and sleepy.

Dr. Siavish Siv Eftekhari of NextGen OMS in Plano, TX, is a highly qualified oral surgeon with many years of experience of carrying out wisdom teeth removal. When you come to the NextGen OMS clinic to get your wisdom teeth removed, you can be sure that you will receive the best possible care.

Discuss With Your Oral Surgeon: All At Once or Multiple Surgeries?

It is up to you to decide whether you would rather have all of your wisdom teeth removed at the same time, or whether you would prefer to leave some of them in place until a later date. It might be that some of your wisdom teeth are sufficiently healthy and well-aligned that they do not need to be removed. Alternatively, you may prefer to get them removed separately so that you experience discomfort only on one side of your mouth at a time.

On the other hand, many people prefer to get all four of their wisdom teeth removed in one go as a single surgery is more convenient. This decision is something that you can discuss with your oral surgeon.

Make a Plan to Stop Smoking

Smoking interferes with the body’s ability to heal after wisdom teeth removal. In addition, the action of sucking on a cigarette can also cause the clot in the socket to dislodge, leading to a painful condition called dry socket.

Make a plan now to stop smoking after getting your wisdom teeth removed. You might find it helpful to use a nicotine patch to help with your cravings or to plan displacement activities that give you something to do with your hands at times when you would usually smoke. Some people find fidget toys very helpful.

Schedule Time Off Work

Many people experience discomfort after wisdom teeth removal. You might find it more comfortable to spend a couple of days resting at home before heading back into the office, rather than trying to get back to work right away.

If you opt for sedation, you will also need to avoid driving or operating machinery until the sedative has fully worn off. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home from the clinic.

Stock Up on Soft Foods

Chewing after wisdom teeth removal can be uncomfortable, so it is a good idea to fill your refrigerator with softer foods that do not require so much chewing. Some examples include yogurt, oatmeal, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soup.

Take Your Medications

Your oral surgeon might give you medications to help with pain after wisdom teeth removal. Be sure to stick to the recommended schedule with these medications to avoid accidentally overdosing or being in pain.

Depending on the type of removal, you might also be given antibiotics to prevent infection. If so, you should complete the full course of pills, even if you feel better before you have finished with them.

If your oral surgeon does not prescribe any medications, you can use over-the-counter pain meds after the removal. Ask your pharmacist for advice if you need any help.

Use a Cold Compress

If you experience swelling after wisdom teeth removal, then holding a cold compress against your cheek can help to reduce inflammation and soothe discomfort in your gum. Just remember not to use ice directly on your skin, as it can cause damage to the skin cells.

Get in Touch Today

If you have been putting off getting your wisdom teeth removed because you are worried about the procedure or about the recovery afterward, you do not need to wait any longer. NextGen OMS is ready to give you the reassurance you need to go through with the procedure and free yourself from having to worry about the potential complications that your wisdom teeth might cause in the future. Call today to schedule an appointment to discuss wisdom teeth removal in Plano, TX.