Did you know that millions of Americans have their wisdom teeth removed each year? Wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed, but you should meet with an oral surgeon if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms:
- Swollen, tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Jaw pain
- Bad breath
- Swelling in the jaw
- Stiffness in the jaw
- Overcrowding
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Cavities
- Sinus issues
For patients who live in or around Grapevine, TX, Dr. Chris Tye at Texas Oral Surgery Specialists is the oral surgeon of choice. Dr. Tye has been nominated by his peers as one of the Top Doctors in North Texas. In fact, many doctors and dentists come to him for oral surgery!
Continue reading to learn what you can expect when you visit an oral surgeon about wisdom teeth extraction.
Initial Consultation
The first appointment serves to determine whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary. The oral surgeon will thoroughly examine and obtain x-rays of your teeth, mouth, and jaw. Once all the information has been considered, he will determine if your wisdom teeth will pose more problems in the future.
If extraction is necessary, he will create your personalized treatment plan, starting with the type and amount of dental sedation you will need. Dr. Tye offers fast-acting general anesthesia and IV sedation to ensure your comfort.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure
If you’re nervous about the removal procedure, you can relax knowing you are in expert hands. Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most frequently performed surgeries by oral surgeons. Though each case is slightly different, your oral surgeon has undergone extensive training and preparation. Many patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure.
After administering anesthesia, the oral surgeon will remove gum or bone tissue to get to the wisdom teeth. Sometimes, the molars need to be broken up to be safely removed. The incisions are carefully sutured, and gauze is placed to control the bleeding.
Typically, this process takes under an hour, but the time varies depending on your specific needs.
Post-Surgical Instructions
After surgery, your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions to aid in the healing process. Follow these guidelines for the first 24 hours after extraction:
- Control the bleeding: The gauze that your oral surgeon placed after surgery can be removed approximately 30 minutes after your surgery. Only replace the gauze if the bleeding continues. To minimize bleeding, fold the gauze into a small square and gently but firmly bite down. You can also try biting down on a moist tea bag for 15 minutes. If the bleeding hasn’t slowed, contact your oral surgeon’s office.
- Reduce swelling: Apply an ice pack to the outside of the surgical area for 20-minute increments. It’s normal for swelling to increase for up to three days after surgery.
- Eat properly: Avoid crunchy, hard, and spicy foods for a week. Drink lots of water.
- Cleaning: Only gently swish an antibacterial mouthwash or warm saltwater rinse to clean and soothe the surgical area. Do not brush.
- Take the proper medications: Finish the entire bottle of the prescribed antibiotics as directed and take the prescribed pain medication as needed.
- Relax: Elevating your heart rate can cause increased bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Do not exercise or lift heavy objects for at least 48 hours after surgery.
For more detailed instructions and other considerations, view our Post-Operative Instructions page.
Contact Our Grapevine Oral Surgeon Today
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms we listed above, call Texas Oral Surgery Specialists at (817) 552-3223 to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Tye.
