Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth, the third and final set of molars, typically emerge between the ages of seventeen and twenty-one. When wisdom teeth grow straight and cause no issues, they provide the same function as your other molars, helping you chew and digest food.

However, many times, these teeth do not grow in properly and can be angled towards an adjacent tooth, threatening it’s health. Wisdom teeth that get stuck between the soft-tissue and bone and become impacted.

These conditions cause immense discomfort and interfere with the patient's ability to eat, speak, or function at their best. If left untreated, troublesome wisdom teeth can lead to further problems and may require more invasive and costly procedures.In cases like this, extraction is necessary.

Getting Ready for Your Extraction

While the idea of oral surgery to have wisdom teeth removed may seem scary, this procedure is very common. Some preparation on your part helps to ensure a positive outcome and maximize your comfort.

To prepare for your wisdom teeth extraction, discuss the procedure with your dentist. Don't be afraid to ask questions related to the reasons the teeth are being removed, as well as any precautions or steps they suggest to take and what aftercare will involve. Before the extraction, be sure to notify your dentist of any of the following:

• All surgeries you have undergone
• All medications you are currently taking
• Any serious medical conditions you currently have or have had in the past including bacterial endocarditis and mitral valve issues.
• Be sure to ask what kind of anesthetic the dentist is planning to use. You will likely need a ride home after your surgery.

It is important for you and your dentist to have as much information possible to reduce the risk of complications and make sure that your extraction will be successful.

Before the Procedure

Be sure to arrive early, The dentist will have begun preparing for your surgery and may have some last minute preparations to make that require your presence. Arriving late may cause you to have to reschedule. Both patient and dentist should be relaxed during surgery. Sedation options may also be revisited at this time.

Sedation and Anesthetic Options*

Local Anesthesia - Local anesthesia is injected near the area of the tooth being removed. Before the injection, your dentist is likely to apply a substance to your gums to numb them.

Oral Conscious Sedation - A prescription sedative can be provided prior to the procedure for relaxation.

I.V. Sedation - Sedation anesthesia is administered through an intravenous (I.V.) line in your arms, suppressing your consciousness during the surgery. You won’t feel any pain and will have only limited memory about the surgery.

Nitrous and Oral Sedation - Another option is the combination of nitrous oxide and oral sedation which is often sufficient for highly anxious patients. 

*None of these sedation techniques require fasting and our dentist recommends a healthy breakfast to avoid risking low blood sugar during the procedure.

Make Yourself Comfortable – Some Tips

Bringing a friend along (especially one that has had the procedure before) can help calm your nerves and can give you a ride home afterward.

Wearing Loose-Fitting Clothing like sweatpants and a short-sleeved t-shirthelps you feel comfortables especially if you are having IV sedation. Bring a blanket or heavy sweater because you may be cold for a while after the surgery.

Distracting Yourself by watching videos or listening to music on your earphones helps reduce or eliminate unnecessary worrying.

Call Dr. Hans Sperling to Learn More about Wisdom Tooth Extractions in Hollywood, FL

Dr. Sperling has the skill and experience you need when undergoing wisdom teeth removal. His gentle and meticulous approach means you can count on your procedure being handled professionally and with compassion.