If you’re feeling nervous about wisdom teeth removal, you’re definitely not alone. Many patients across Alaska have questions, worries and even anxiety at the thought of having a wisdom tooth extraction, especially if they’ve not undergone this type of procedure before. The good news is that wisdom tooth removal is relatively common and, with the right dental team, can be a smooth, manageable experience.
Whether you’re dealing with wisdom tooth pain, impaction, or simply planning ahead, knowing what to expect at each stage of the process will help you feel more confident and at ease, with no nasty surprises along the way. So, let’s jump in and take a look.
Your wisdom teeth consultation at Mint Dental
During this initial consultation, our dentist will take digital X-rays to evaluate the position and alignment of your wisdom teeth. The main reason people suffer from wisdom teeth problems is that there is insufficient room in the mouth for an additional 4 molars. Common problems caused by wisdom teeth include:
- Pain or swelling
- Infection
- Swollen, red or bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Tooth decay
- Impaction
- Dental crowding
Based on your symptoms and the X-ray images, our dentist will decide whether removal is your best option. They’ll also explain the procedure fully, discuss any risks involved, and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Customized treatment
At Mint Dental, wisdom teeth removal is customized according to a patient’s age, health and tooth development. For most people, 17 to 25 years is the ideal time to remove wisdom teeth. This is due in part to the fact that the teeth roots haven’t had time to develop fully, meaning the procedure is easier, and younger people tend to recover faster. Furthermore, early wisdom teeth removal lowers the risk of impaction or overcrowding in the mouth.
In older patients, the tooth roots are fully developed, and the teeth may be more firmly anchored into the jawbone, making extraction more difficult. Due to changes in bone density and healing ability, older patients may also take longer to recover. This is why it’s best to consult regularly with your dentist to determine the best time for wisdom teeth extraction based on your circumstances.
Preparing for wisdom teeth removal in Alaska
Before your procedure date, our dentist will provide guidance on preparation. This generally involves fasting for a few hours before your surgery (particularly if you’re having sedation) and arranging for a family member or friend to drive you home after the surgery.
The day of your procedure
Wisdom teeth removal starts with numbing the area around your teeth with local anesthesia. Depending on your situation, the dentist may also administer sedation to help you relax. Once you’re comfortable the teeth are removed. This involves:
- Cutting the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone
- Removing any bone that is blocking access to the tooth root
- Cutting the tooth into sections, enabling it to be removed in pieces through a smaller incision
- Cleaning the surgical site of tooth debris
- Stitching the wound (where necessary)
- Placing gauze over the site for the patient to bite down on to help control bleeding and form a blood clot
Following the procedure
If you’ve had sedation, you’ll be taken to the recovery room following the procedure, whereas if you’ve only had a local anesthesia, you’ll be given a few minutes to recover in the dental chair before heading home. Our dentist will give you instructions on controlling bleeding and taking care of your mouth. It’s vital to follow these instructions to avoid any complications.
You may have some swelling and mild pain, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen. For the first 24 hours, ensure you rest, remain hydrated, and limit any activity.
Healing at home
Any swelling and discomfort is likely to subside after the first 24-48 hours, and by days 3-5, you should be feeling more comfortable. During this time, it’s best to wash your mouth gently with salt water, eat soft foods like soup or yoghurt and avoid using a straw or smoking. Either of these things can cause a painful condition known as dry socket.
By a week and beyond, you should be back to your normal routine and activities. However, do bear in mind that recovery time can vary according to the individual and the complexity of their procedure.
When to seek help after wisdom tooth extraction
While wisdom tooth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries, extra care is often required due to the potential complexity of the procedure. During recovery, you should be watchful for any signs of complications, although typically these are rare. Call your doctor or dentist if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding – Minor bleeding is completely normal, but persistent or heavy bleeding could signal a problem.
- Swelling that doesn’t subside – If severe swelling is present 72 hours after your procedure, it could be an indication of infection.
- Intense pain – If pain persists beyond the typical healing timeline or worsens, it could be a sign of dry socket.
- Signs of extraction complications – If you have a fever, chills or notice pus oozing from the surgical site, it’s important to seek immediate professional attention.
- Difficulty in swallowing or breathing – this requires immediate attention.
- Persistent numbness or loss of feeling – Usually, any numbness is temporary. Should it continue for more than a day, contact your dentist.
Choosing the right dentist for your wisdom teeth removal
Understanding what to expect can make wisdom teeth removal feel far less intimidating. If you’d like personalized advice or want to discuss your next steps, the team at Mint Dental Alaska would be happy to help. Schedule a consultation today and let us take care of the rest.
Dr. Holliday is a licensed dentist committed to providing patient-centered dental care. He focuses on patient education, and helping individuals and families maintain long-term oral health. Dr. Holliday believes clear communication and a comfortable experience are essential to building trust and positive outcomes for every patient.
