Any tooth may need to be extracted if it is deemed hopeless. It may be badly broken down or it may have an infection in it that cannot be resolved without tooth removal. Wisdom teeth are extracted in order to avoid future pain and infection in the jaw bone. Wisdom teeth are usually impacted which causes pockets to form that trap food and bacteria that cause recurrent infections. Sometimes, wisdom teeth can develop pathology such as cysts and tumors around them which would warrant immediate removal.

In order to prevent any future problems, wisdom teeth are usually removed between 18-24 years of age. Your dentist will decide and prescribe removal of wisdom teeth depending on your specific situation. Some people go through life with all wisdom teeth present and may not have any issues with them.

The idea of a tooth extraction may sound scary to some. Laughing gas or oral sedatives can be offered to sedate you if you have anxiety about the procedure. During the appointment, local anesthetics will be injected into the area. You should only feel the slight pressure of the instruments during the extraction. Remember to breathe and it should be over very soon!

Following the extraction, you should keep a few things in mind to avoid an infection,

For the next 12 hours:

DO NOT RINSE YOUR MOUTH

DO NOT SMOKE

DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL

DO NOT DRINK FROM A STRAW

NO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, YOU NEED TO REST

* The following day, gently rinse with warm salt water 4 times. Do this for the next 3 to 4 days. This will help promote healing.

* Some bleeding is normal after an extraction and usually stops within several hours. If it persists, bite firmly on a damp tea bag for 20 minutes.

* AVOID HOT LIQUIDS and rest with your head elevated.

* If bleeding is excessive or persists, please contact our office.

* Until the freezing wears off be very careful not to bite your lips, tongue or cheeks –

THIS IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT FOR CHILDREN.

* Avoid eating until the freezing is gone.

* You can begin drinking liquids as soon as you get home. Never hot liquids!

* You may eat soft foods such as eggs, puddings, and soups. Progress to a more solid diet over the next 36 hours.

* To minimize any swelling, place an ice pack over the area for 10 minutes and then remove it for 10 minutes. Repeat as necessary.

* If you are given a prescription, it should be taken after your appointment. Otherwise, a pain reliever like Advil or Tylenol may be taken as needed.

* DO NOT take aspirin as it may prolong any bleeding.

Call our office at 905 895 8031 if there are any concerns.

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