If you are having your wisdom teeth removed, you may have some questions about how this process works. Here is a step by step walkthrough of what to expect if you are having your wisdom teeth removed.
1. Your dentist will provide you with a method of sedation. In some cases this will include a local anesthetic, but for most cases, this will include some sort of general anesthesia or a twilight anesthesia with a local anesthetic. If you require additional x-rays, your dentist will take them now. The dentist will administer your systemic anesthesia and then rub the affected teeth with a topical anesthesia and/or inject your gums with a numbing agent.
2. After your anesthesia has taken effect, your dentist or oral surgeon will begin the process of removing your teeth. He will first remove the gum tissue surrounding the affected tooth and then he will begin the process of removing the tooth. If it is partially covered in bone, there may be some drilling involved to free it. Otherwise, the dentist will work to remove the connective tissue that is holding the tooth in place using a variety of dental tools.
3. Once loosened, the dentist will begin the process of removing the tooth. He may choose to cut it into sections in order to prevent it from breaking during the removal process.
4. Depending on the process, the dentist may elect to place stitches in the remaining tissue to promote healing, ward off potential infection and control bleeding. He will then pack the sockets with gauze and send you home with specific instructions.
Having your wisdom teeth removed may seem nerve wracking to you, but is common practice for most dentists. In some cases they can be removed in the dental office while in other cases, a surgical suite may be used.
