Generally, every person has to experience the growth of a wisdom tooth at some point in life. However, the eruption of a wisdom tooth is not an easy experience. Most people have a painful experience during the eruption or growth of the wisdom tooth.
Most dentists will advise for the removal of the wisdom tooth. However, again the removal of the wisdom tooth is not a painless experience either. Wisdom tooth removal is also a painful experience.
The pain can be mild to severe depending on the complexity of the tooth. Once the wisdom tooth is removed, the healing process is also slower until then the patient has to go through pain.
Why is removal of wisdom teeth necessary?
The lack of space for the eruption and growth of wisdom teeth is one of the main reasons for the pain.
Here are some reasons to remove the wisdom tooth:
Lack of space
The most common reason for wisdom tooth extraction is the lack of sufficient space in the mouth to accommodate them. When there is not enough room for the wisdom teeth to fully erupt, they may become impacted, meaning they are unable to emerge fully or in the correct position. Wisdom teeth can cause pain and swelling.
Tooth misalignment
Wisdom teeth can lead to crowding due to the pressure exerted by it. This can undo the effects of orthodontic treatment (braces) and cause the teeth to shift out of their proper positions. Removing the wisdom teeth can help preserve the alignment of the rest of the teeth.
Infection and inflammation
Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth can create a small opening in the gums, which can allow bacteria to enter and cause an infection. This condition is called pericoronitis and is characterized by pain, swelling, and difficulty in opening the mouth. Removing the wisdom teeth can alleviate the risk of infection and associated symptoms.
Tooth decay and gum disease
Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. Their position makes them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Removing wisdom teeth can help prevent future oral health issues related to these teeth.
All these oral health problems make it necessary for the removal of the wisdom tooth.
How can we speed up healing after the removal of the wisdom tooth?
The healing process after wisdom tooth removal is very slow, so some methods must be used to speed up the healing process.
Here are some tips to speed up healing after the removal of wisdom tooth:
Follow post-operative instructions
Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions to follow after the wisdom tooth removal. Make sure to follow them carefully, as they are tailored to your individual case.
Manage pain and swelling
Take proper pain medication which is suggested by your dentist. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also help alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Applying an ice pack to the affected area for short periods can help reduce swelling as well.
Maintain good oral hygiene
While brushing and flossing around the extraction site should be avoided immediately after surgery, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene in the rest of your mouth. After the first 24 hours, you can gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to keep it clean.
Avoid vigorous activities
Physical activities, including heavy lifting and strenuous exercise, should be avoided for at least the first few days after surgery. These activities can increase bleeding and slow down the healing process.
Eat soft and cool foods
Stick to a soft diet consisting of foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups. Avoid hot and spicy foods, as well as foods that are hard or require excessive chewing, as they can irritate the extraction site.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water, is essential for a smooth recovery. Adequate hydration helps maintain overall health and can contribute to a faster healing process.
Get enough rest
Compulsory take 2 days rest after wisdom tooth removal. Avoid strenuous activities and aim for a good night’s sleep to aid in the healing process.
These are some ways you can speed the healing process after wisdom tooth removal. You need to choose reputed dental experts to ensure that there is minimum pain during the removal of wisdom teeth and get proper instructions for healing soon.
Expert's Opinions
- Dr. Ankita Gada Removal of wisdom teeth is a painful experience and its healing takes a longer period. So, after removal of the wisdom tooth it is essential to apply proper tips for healing faster."