Any kind of dental work outside of a general cleaning can seem anxiety-provoking. Especially ones which require surgical methods, like tooth extractions. But getting a tooth extracted is more common nowadays than in years past. The procedures and processes involved are far more advanced than even 10 to 15 years ago for molar extraction. Every dentist is different, and every mouth is different, so the rest time and healing times will vary greatly. Here is some helpful information on dental extractions from the experts at Glow Dentistry in Castle Rock to get you started.
Molar Extraction
The ideal age for wisdom tooth removal is between the ages of 17 and 25. During that time, 2/3 of the roots have formed and are therefore at a lower risk for nerve damage or other risks that accompany tooth removal at an older age. Although the tooth extraction risks are low, there’s always a small risk. But most people don’t know to get their molars removed until there’s an issue. Yet most people don’t have an issue until later on in life. You may be wondering if you even need your wisdom teeth removed anymore, especially if you’re not in any pain. In that case, your dentist may not recommend wisdom teeth removal. Regularly- scheduled exams and x-rays are important when determining if you need a tooth extraction. You may have healthy, well-aligned teeth, and you may be able to clean them thoroughly. Perhaps they have fully erupted and they’re not stuck in the gum line. These are all signs of healthy wisdom teeth that don’t require much attention yet. At this point, it’s fully up to you whether or not to get them removed.
But when it comes to your wisdom teeth, you could have a variety of symptoms that would lead you to question the removal of your molars. Consistent sinus issues, swollen or tender gums, stiffness, pain or swelling in the jaw, and even headaches or earaches that are consistent are enough cause for you to ask your dentist about a molar extraction. More often than not, people want their molars extracted before they straighten their teeth, as crowding and spacing tends to be an issue when it comes to straightening the teeth with molars still intact. Malocclusion, or poor tooth alignment, is a common disruption for wisdom teeth and is noticeable if they are at an angle that can interfere with chewing or talking. In serious cases, tooth decay and abscesses are a problem for some people who are looking to get relief, and they can generally find that relief from getting a molar extraction.
But because everyone is different, you and your dentist should discuss if this pain is molar-related.
There are four wisdom teeth: two on the bottom and two on the top. The two on the top are fairly easy to remove with local anesthesia. You are generally not asked to fast beforehand, and you’re good to go once it’s done. However, the two bottom molars sit in a place that requires surgical methods. The surgery should require sedation and a reliable drive home as you’ll be groggy. No need to be concerned about the sedation process,however, as it’s quick, painless, and will be over before you know it.
How Long Should I Rest After a Molar Extraction?
Assuming you’re following your dentist’s orders, your downtime should be relatively short and comfortable. You will feel sore, but take the painkillers according to their instructions. They will advise you to bite down on gauze for a few hours to control the bleeding on the extraction site. You can alternate ice and heat for 10 minutes at a time for the first couple of days, but you’ll want to generally relax the first full day by limiting your activity. Your body just went through surgery, and no matter how minor a surgery it was, it needs to recover! After a while, you’ll want to rinse with salt water and eat soft foods, such as pudding, mashed potatoes, and yogurt.
Dental anxiety is a legitimate fear. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Let your Glow Dentistry dentist know about your molar extraction concerns so they can address them and give you the peace of mind you need. Glow Dentistry has a staff of professional dentists and oral surgeons who provide anything from emergency dental care to restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Tooth extractions are their specialty, so they will help you feel at ease from start to finish. When looking for dentists in Castle Rock, call Glow Dentistry about your dental extraction needs today!