Wisdom Teeth

What are Wisdom Teeth?

The third and final set of molars erupt in the back corners of the upper and lower normal adult mouth. The problem with wisdom teeth is their close proximity to existing permanent teeth. This situation can cause a number of problems. Typical examples include crowding, improper bites, crooked teeth and other issues. Adult wisdom teeth have caused problems for years.

If you are experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth, chances are they have become impacted. This can be a very painful experience that you’ll want to address as quickly as possible. This can also be very harmful to your oral health. Symptoms you may experience are relatively easy to identify: pain, inflammation, and some kinds of infections.

It is not unusual for many adults to have their wisdom teeth extracted. This procedure will eliminate future problems and save patients a lot of aggravation and pain in the future. Getting rid of your four wisdom teeth has absolutely no longstanding effect on one's ability to properly bite down, speak or eat.

Post Tooth Extraction Care Instructions

• DO NOT RINSE mouth for 24 hours.

• NEXT DAY rinse mouth with 1/2 teaspoon of table salt in 8 oz glass of very warm water after meals. Repeat this for the next 2-3 days.

• KEEP FINGERS AND TONGUE away from extraction socket.

• BLEEDING: Some bleeding following tooth extraction is normal. Change the cotton gauze you were given every 45 minutes until the site is not actively bleeding. It is not uncommon for the bleeding to last several hours after the extraction if you are taking any blood thinning medication (including Aspirin).

• SWELLING: Use plastic bag or towel filled with ice against affected area for 5 minutes on and 10 minutes off for one hour. Swelling is not unusual and is no cause for alarm.

• FOOD AND DRINK: Light diet is advisable during the first 24 hours. Carbonated and alcoholic beverages should be avoided. Do not sip through a straw.

• DO NOT SMOKE for 3 days after extraction. This is the number one cause of dry socket complications.

• BONY EDGES: After teeth are extracted, you may feel hard projections in your mouth. This is usually the hard, bony partition which surrounds the roots of the teeth. These will generally break away or work themselves out of the site.

• If antibiotics were prescribed for you, take the full amount of medication, even when symptoms have disappeared.

• PAIN MANAGEMENT: Ibuprofen (Advil) 400mg + Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500mg. Take together every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. Do not exceed 2400mg Ibuprofen or 3000mg Acetaminophen daily.

• In case of any unusal symptoms or complications contact our office. 

  Office: (423) 265-3471 
  After hours emergency: (423) 322-1618