Wisdom Tooth Removal St. Albert
Wisdom tooth removal can be a daunting experience, but with the right information and guidance, the process can be made smoother. Dr. Lon Riemer is an experienced St. Albert dentist who will help you understand the wisdom tooth removal process and if wisdom tooth extraction is right for you.
How to Prepare for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Here are some general guidelines for the process of getting your wisdom teeth removed and to help you prepare for your wisdom tooth removal.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lon Riemer to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about the procedure.
Provide a comprehensive medical history, including any medications you are currently taking. Inform your dentist about any allergies or pre-existing medical conditions.
Your dentist will likely take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine the best approach for removal.
Talk to your dentist about the anesthesia options available. Wisdom tooth removal is often performed under local anesthesia, but sedation or general anesthesia may be considered as well.
Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding fasting before the surgery. Typically, you should avoid eating or drinking for a specific period before the procedure, especially if you will be under anesthesia.
Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. It’s not safe to drive immediately following the removal.
What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Removal
After undergoing wisdom tooth removal, it’s crucial to follow proper post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some key steps to take:
- Pain Relief: Use ice packs for the first couple of days and take pain medication on a schedule as recommended by your dentist.
- Complete Prescribed Antibiotics: If you are prescribed antibiotics, it is essentially to complete the entire course of antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Avoid Healing-Disruptors: For the first 24 hours, refrain from rinsing your mouth, consuming alcohol, smoking, or having hot drinks to promote healing and prevent excessive bleeding.
- Wound Care: Clean the wound gently, and if necessary, apply gauze to the empty tooth socket. After the initial 24 hours, rinse with salt water a few times a day.
- Rest and Recovery: Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities in the first few days.
FAQs
Wisdom tooth removal costs can vary based on your dentist and dental coverage. For specific information in St. Albert, Alberta, consult with Dr. Lon Riemer. If you do not have dental coverage, read about the Canada Dental Benefit.
Avoid hot drinks for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging blood clots in the tooth socket.
Popcorn should be avoided for a minimum of two weeks, until your empty tooth socket is fully healed which can take up to eight weeks, as it can be lodged into your wound and cause infection. Other foods to avoid initially include highly acidic items, small grains and seeds, chewy and crunchy foods, and anything causing pain.
Avoid smoking for 12 hours before extraction and at least 72 hours afterward.
Some bleeding for the first 24 hours is normal. Bouts of bleeding for a couple of weeks are also common.
You should feel well-recovered after 2 or 3 weeks, and it can take up to two months for your extraction wound to fully heal.
The risk of fatality is extremely rare. Wisdom tooth extraction is a safe and standard procedure.
Talk to Dr. Lon About Wisdom Tooth Removal
Being informed about the process, costs, and aftercare can significantly contribute to a successful wisdom tooth removal experience. If you’re in St. Albert, Dr. Lon Riemer is here to guide you through the process and make it as seamless as possible.