Tooth extractions are some of the most dreaded dental procedures. And because issues with wisdom teeth are common, tooth extractions are some of the more common dental procedures. Even people with mild dental anxieties may find themselves obsessing over an upcoming wisdom tooth extraction. However, knowing what to expect ahead of a wisdom tooth extraction can help you understand why there’s nothing to fear and can help you keep your dental anxieties at bay.
You May Need to Prepare with Antibiotics
You’ll need a few days to heal after you’ve had your wisdom teeth extracted. If you have a compromised immune system or are otherwise especially vulnerable to infections, you’ll need to start taking antibiotics ahead of your extraction procedure. Take antibiotics ahead of time will minimize the chances the extraction sites become infected during the healing period.
It Won’t Be Painful
Thanks to local anesthesia, your tooth extraction procedure will be relatively painless. After a quick prick to the gums, the anesthesia will kick in quickly and will numb sensation in your mouth. It may not mute all sensation, but you shouldn’t feel much more than a bit of pressure as the teeth are removed.
You Have Options to Manage Anxiety
Despite fully understanding that local anesthesia will numb all of the pain, some people still feel anxious ahead of and during their procedure. For those people, sedation dentistry can make a world of difference and help them feel completely calm during their procedure.
Here’s an overview of some of the top benefits of sedation dentistry:
Swelling Is Normal and Should Go Away Shortly
There’s no need to be alarmed. Swelling after a tooth extraction is normal. You’ll need to ice the extraction sites and take over-the-counter pain medicines to help minimize inflammation. In a couple of days, the swelling should be mostly or completely gone.
Extracting Wisdom Teeth in Pittsburgh, PA
Reserve an appointment with a local dentist to learn more about what to expect ahead of the removal of wisdom teeth in Pittsburgh, PA.
