As a nurse, I considered wisdom teeth removal a minor procedure that didnt count as real surgery.
But this all changed when I had my own removed at age 28.
Our nanny stayed the day.
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Between the ages of 1725,the third molars, aka wisdom teeth,usually surface.
Though most people have four or fewer wisdom teeth,some people dont have any.
Rachel Uppgaard, DDS, is a clinical associate professor in the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Minnesota.
What happens before a wisdom tooth removal?
Some surgeons will remove wisdom teeth on the same day that they meet a patient.
Others like to have a pre-surgical consult and then remove the teeth on a different day.
Some insurance companies require prior authorization.
An IV will be started.
The procedure length depends on the complexity of the case and the surgeon.
Dr. Uppgaard recommends you ask your surgeon about the length of your procedure.
Why do patients act so weird after?
After I awoke in the recovery room, my mouth full of gauze, I felt great about life.
Rachel Uppgaard, DDS, is a clinical associate professor in the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Minnesota.
Im hot, I said to my husband.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
A creepy smile spread across my puffy face, No, Im sexy.
Youtube is full of videos ofpeople saying hilarious things after wisdom teeth removal.
Dr. Uppgaard explains that it takes time for the anesthesia medications to wear off.
you could expect the medications to wear off after 24 hours.
What OTC medications should you keep on hand?
Check dosage instructions on the bottle; its important not to exceed the maximum dose per day.
In the first few days after surgery, its helpful to write down the times you take each medication.
A patient may be sent home with antibiotics, antimicrobial mouthwash, and steroids.
What can I eat after?
Dr. Uppgaard recommends soft foods for the first few days and advancing the diet as tolerated.
Post-op care
Do these things:
Dont do these things!
If this happens, your surgeon will close it up during the procedure and provide care instructions.
If you experience numbness that lasts over 24 hours, call your surgeons office.
Infection: Up to six percent of patients develop an infection after wisdom teeth removal.
This is treated with antibiotics or a minor surgical procedure to drain the infection.
How long does recovery normally take?
Each surgeon is different, and each patient has a unique situation.
This guide is not specific to you; discuss the specifics of your procedure with your surgeon.
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