A wisdom tooth, also called a third molar, is a tooth located in the back of the mouth. Wisdom teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have only two or three. A wisdom tooth can cause problems if they erupt crookedly or don’t have enough room to grow properly in the jaw.
If wisdom teeth are causing problems, your dentist may recommend removing them. Wisdom teeth removal is a relatively simple procedure that can be done in the dentist’s office.
So what can you eat after wisdom teeth removal? Read more as we’ll get into the details of this matter in today’s article.
Why It’s Called Wisdom Tooth
The name “wisdom tooth” comes from the fact that this tooth usually appears when people are older and have more life experience. Although it’s not clear why this happens, research suggests that the wisdom tooth is related to age-related changes in hormone levels and the way the skull grows.
How A Wisdom Tooth Is Removed By A Dentist
If a wisdom tooth is not causing problems, there is no need to have them removed. However, if they are causing pain or crowding other teeth, your dentist may recommend that they be removed. Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure that is usually performed by a dentist or oral surgeon.
The removal of a wisdom tooth typically begins with the dentist numbing the area around the tooth with an anesthetic. Once the area is numb, the dentist will use a tool to loosen the tooth from the gum and bone. Next, the dentist will use forceps to pull the tooth out. If any pieces of the tooth are still attached to the gum or bone, they will be removed using a scalpel. Finally, the area will be cleaned and a bandage will be applied.
What To Do After Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you just had your wisdom tooth removed, you will likely be feeling a bit sore and uncomfortable. In this section, we will discuss some tips on how to make the healing process easier, as well as what medications to take if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort.
The first thing you should do after having your wisdom tooth removed is to ice the area for fifteen minutes every two hours. This can help to reduce swelling and inflammation. You can use a cold pack, ice cream, or even a bag of frozen vegetables.
You should also take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications will help to reduce inflammation and pain. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package, and do not take more than the recommended dose.
If you are experiencing any nausea or vomiting after your surgery, you can take over-the-counter antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or promethazine (Phenergan). These medications can help to relieve these symptoms.
What To Eat Until The Surgical Site Is Completely Healed
In most cases, patients will be able to eat and drink immediately after their wisdom tooth has been removed. However, it is important to avoid hot or hard foods as they can irritate the extraction site. It is also important to brush and floss carefully to avoid irritating the site.
After removal, it is important to eat soft, bland foods that are easy to chew and digest. Some good options include soup, yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and pasta. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the surgical site and promote healing. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods as well as carbonated beverages for at least the first week after surgery. Once you are feeling better and the surgical site has healed, you can slowly resume your normal diet.
What To Do After The Extraction Site Has Completely Healed
Patients should see their dentist for a follow-up appointment to ensure that the extraction site is healing properly. This is important to have a follow up check-up after the surgical site of the tooth extraction has completely healed because there is a risk of infection and dry socket.
Infection can occur when bacteria enter the wound and spread. This can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and fever. If left untreated, it may require antibiotics or even surgery. Dry socket is a painful condition that can occur when a blood clot fails to form in the socket where the tooth was removed. Bone and nerve endings are exposed and can cause severe pain.
A follow-up check-up will allow your dentist to ensure that the surgical site has healed properly and that you are not experiencing any complications from the extraction. You can visit Vista Family Dentistry near Pewaukee, WI if you need to ask a professional about this surgery.