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Wisdom Teeth Removal: What to Expect and How to Prepare

added on: December 12, 2024

When it comes to wisdom teeth removal, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make the experience smoother and less daunting. At The Oral Surgery Group, Dr. Michael Dachowski and our team are highly skilled in providing exceptional care throughout this procedure, ensuring the highest level of care for wisdom teeth removal in Doylestown and Meadowbrook.

Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, typically emerging in the late teens or early twenties. For many people, there is not enough space in the mouth to accommodate these teeth, leading to various issues such as impaction, misalignment, and infection. In some cases, wisdom teeth can grow crooked or partially erupt, causing pain or damage to surrounding teeth. Removal is often recommended to prevent these complications before they arise.

What to Expect During the Procedure
The wisdom teeth removal process begins with a thorough consultation at The Oral Surgery Group, where Dr. Dachowski will evaluate the condition of your teeth, review imaging, and determine the best course of action for removal. On the day of surgery, the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your individual needs. He will discuss all options with you, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

The surgery itself is usually straightforward and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. After anesthesia is administered, Dr. Dachowski will carefully remove the wisdom teeth, often using small incisions in the gum tissue to access the teeth if they have not fully erupted. In some cases, the teeth may need to be sectioned for easier removal. Once the teeth are extracted, sutures may be placed to promote healing.

At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?
Wisdom teeth are usually removed in the late teens or early 20s, typically between ages 17 and 25. However, they can be removed later if they cause problems. The earlier the removal, the easier the procedure tends to be, as the roots of the teeth are not yet fully developed.

What happens if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth?
If left untreated, wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems. These include impaction, which can lead to pain and infections, misalignment of other teeth, or damage to adjacent teeth and bones. In some cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, which may require more extensive treatment.

How to Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Preparing for the procedure is an essential step to ensure a successful surgery and a smooth recovery. Dr. Dachowski and the team at The Oral Surgery Group will provide you with detailed preoperative instructions. You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking after midnight before your surgery, especially if undergoing sedation or general anesthesia.

Make sure to arrange transportation to and from the office, as you will not be able to drive after the procedure if sedation is used. It’s also helpful to have a comfortable recovery space prepared at home, with soft pillows and easy access to fluids and soft foods.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The removal itself is not painful due to the use of local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia during the procedure. Some discomfort and swelling are normal during recovery, but this can be managed with prescribed pain medications and home care recommendations.

Recovery and Aftercare
Following the removal, a few days of rest are essential for optimal healing. You will likely experience swelling, minor bleeding, and some discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and cold compresses. Dr. Dachowski will provide aftercare instructions, including how to manage oral hygiene, what foods to avoid, and when to follow up. Sticking to a soft diet and avoiding physical exertion will help prevent complications.

How long is the recovery after wisdom teeth removal?
Recovery usually takes a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the extraction and your individual healing process. Swelling and discomfort are most common in the first three days, but most patients are able to return to normal activities within a week. Complete healing of the surgical site may take a few weeks.

Why Choose Us
The Oral Surgery Group is committed to ensuring a smooth recovery process for patients who undergo wisdom teeth removal in Meadowbrook and Doylestown. If you have any concerns after the procedure, our team is available to provide guidance and support every step of the way.

With the expertise and dedication of Dr. Michael Dachowski, wisdom teeth removal is handled with care and precision, helping patients maintain optimal oral health while preventing future complications.


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