Wisdom teeth are the last molars. It usually begins to grow and appear around the age of 15 – 20 years, or some people may develop faster or slower than this.
There are a total of 4 wisdom teeth, both upper and lower. They are often large and oddly shaped and can cause oral health problems. And it is not necessary because it is a tooth that is difficult to clean. Therefore, dentists often recommend surgery or extraction of wisdom teeth even if there is no toothache.
After extraction or a wisdom tooth is removed, you may have or notice:
Do…
* Take the pain medications your surgeon prescribes as soon as you can after surgery
* Change your gauze once every hour
* Remove your gauze pad(s) 2-3 hours after surgery ends (or whenever your surgeon instructs you to do so)
* Use an ice pack for the first 24-36 hours after surgery
* Use moist heat as needed to reduce jaw soreness after the first 36 hours
* Eat only soft foods
* Drink plenty of fluids, including water
* Use a wedge pillow to elevate your head
* Start brushing your teeth, but not the extraction site(s), beginning on day 2
Don’t…
* Don’t drink through a straw. Sucking may loosen blood clots that help your mouth heal.
* Don’t rinse your mouth too harshly. Your doctor may suggest rinsing gently with saltwater.
* Don’t eat hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may scratch your wounds.
* Don’t smoke. Smoking can slow your healing.