When it comes to dental health, wisdom teeth removal is a significant topic that often arises. These third molars, which appear in your late teens or early twenties, can cause a variety of issues if there isn’t enough room in your mouth for them. The Village Dentist, based in Toronto, is here to guide you through the process of wisdom teeth removal, from understanding why it might be necessary to know what to expect during and after the procedure.

Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Removal

The need to remove wisdom teeth can be due to several reasons:

• Impaction: Wisdom teeth that don’t have enough space to emerge properly can become impacted, leading to discomfort, swelling, and infection.
• Misalignment: These teeth can grow at awkward angles, potentially causing crowding and affecting the overall alignment of your teeth.
• Cavities and Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, making them prone to cavities and gum disease.

What to Expect During and After Wisdom Teeth Removal

The wisdom teeth removal process may vary slightly for each individual in Toronto, ON, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• Before Surgery: You’ll have a consultation with our Toronto Dentist to discuss the details of the procedure, your anesthesia options, and any risks involved.
• During Surgery: The duration of the procedure can vary but typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. You might receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your specific situation and preference.
• After Surgery: It’s common to experience some grogginess from the anesthesia, along with mild bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Most people are able to resume their normal activities within a few days to a week.

Post-Operative Care:

Dos and Don’ts

Do:

1. Rest: It’s important to take it easy for the first 24-48 hours to help minimize bleeding and swelling.
2. Use Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to your cheeks can help reduce swelling. It’s recommended to do this in 15-minute intervals.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is key, but avoid using a straw as the suction can disrupt the healing process.
4. Eat Soft Foods: Soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soups are gentle on the surgery site and can help prevent irritation.

Don’t:

1. Smoke: Smoking can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
2. Neglect Oral Hygiene: While you should be gentle, it’s still important to keep the mouth clean. Rinsing with warm salt water after meals and starting 24 hours after surgery can help.
3. Poke the Surgery Site: Avoid touching the area with your tongue or fingers to prevent infection and irritation.
4. Consume Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with the healing process and the effectiveness of prescribed medications.

Recommended Foods

After having your wisdom teeth removed, choosing the right foods is crucial for a smooth recovery. The Village Dentist suggests incorporating the following into your diet:

• Cold Soups: Opt for cold, pureed vegetable soups. These are not only soothing but are also packed with essential nutrients that aid in the healing process.
• Soft Foods: Stick to foods that require minimal chewing, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and applesauce. These foods are gentle on the surgery site and help prevent irritation.
• Protein Shakes: Prepare protein shakes with fruits, berries, and nut milks. Protein is vital for healing, and the added fruits and berries provide necessary vitamins and antioxidants.
• Cold Foods: Enjoy cold treats like popsicles and ice cream in moderation. These can help soothe the surgery area and provide temporary relief from discomfort.

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can disrupt the healing process and should be avoided to prevent complications:

• Hot Soups: Steaming or hot foods can aggravate the surgery site and potentially cause discomfort or injury.
• Spicy Foods: Spices might irritate the sensitive tissues around the extraction site, leading to discomfort and prolonging the healing process.
• Chips/Crackers: Hard, crunchy foods can injure the healing gums and may lodge in the surgery site, increasing the risk of infection.
• Nuts and Seeds: Small particles from nuts and seeds can get trapped in the extraction sites, leading to irritation or infection.

Following these dietary guidelines can help ensure a smoother and quicker recovery process. Remember, the first few days post-surgery are crucial for healing, so adhering to these recommendations is key. If you have any concerns or require further advice, The Village Dentist team is here to support you through your recovery.