Some common signs that you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed include pain, swelling, or infection in the area around the wisdom teeth, or if your dentist has recommended their removal due to overcrowding or impaction.
You may be awake or under sedation during the procedure, depending on the complexity of the extraction and your own personal preferences. Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss your options and help you choose the best approach for your needs.
Most patients can expect to recover within a week or two after wisdom tooth removal, although it may take longer for the area to fully heal. Your dentist or oral surgeon can provide specific guidance based on your individual situation.
In the first few days following the procedure, it is recommended to stick to soft foods that do not require much chewing, such as yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes. You should also avoid hot and spicy foods, as well as crunchy or hard foods that may irritate the extraction site.
Like any surgical procedure, wisdom tooth removal does come with some risks, such as bleeding, infection, and nerve damage. However, these risks are generally rare and can be minimized by following your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions before and after the procedure.