While the internet is a great source for researching your wisdom tooth extraction, it is easy to fall prey to sites providing false information and be navigated in the wrong direction. Fortunately, you are not alone! While we encourage you to research and understand your upcoming procedure, we also emphasize the importance of knowing whether the information you are finding is fact or if it is fiction. Having extensive experience with removing wisdom teeth in our practice, we know the most commonly asked questions and myths surrounding wisdom teeth removal!
Fact or Myth?
- If I can’t feel my wisdom teeth, then I must not need to get them removed.
This is pure fiction! While it is true that not all people need their wisdom teeth removed, the decision to do so is one that you should make with your general dentist and oral surgeon. You may not be able to feel your wisdom teeth, but that doesn’t mean that they do not put your oral health at risk. A simple x-ray can help your oral surgeon determine if they are positioned under your gums in a way that will damage or misalign your healthy teeth or if they are at risk for infection. If your wisdom teeth pose any threat to your oral health, then it is likely that your oral surgeon will elect to remove them, even if you are asymptomatic. Wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 17-25, and we encourage you to seek regular advice from your general dentist. - I don’t need to see an oral surgeon to have my wisdom teeth removed.
It is not uncommon for other dental professionals to advertise their competency in wisdom teeth extractions; however, not every dental practitioner is qualified to perform the treatment. Many people don’t know that oral and maxillofacial surgeons spend at least four years training in a hands-on, hospital-based residency program in addition to earning their dental degree. During this time, they also train alongside medical anesthesiologists to safely administer anesthesia to their patients and monitor them during treatment. While some dental practitioners advertise proficiency in this procedure, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are the most qualified healthcare providers to perform wisdom teeth extractions, ensuring safe treatment and efficient removal. - I should only eat soft foods immediately following my wisdom teeth extractions.
Finally, some truth! Immediately following your wisdom teeth extractions, you may experience some pain and minimal bleeding in the area of the empty tooth socket. To keep from irritating the areas, it is best to avoid eating hard, chewy, or extremely hot foods. This means that you get to enjoy foods like milkshakes, smoothies, and yogurt during the initial healing period! Anything soft that you can swallow without chewing is the perfect meal for you after having your wisdom teeth removed. If you have any questions about certain foods you might be craving, just talk to your oral surgeon! We are here to help!
At Balaci Oral and Facial Surgery, it is our top priority to ensure that all of our patients are fully informed about their treatment and have the proper online resources to understand their upcoming wisdom teeth extractions. If you have any questions about wisdom teeth extractions, please utilize the tools on our website or call our office to schedule a consultation.
