All You Need to Know About Removing an Upper Wisdom Tooth
Are you experiencing unbearable pain and discomfort in your upper jaw? Chances are it might be due to an upper wisdom tooth. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge and usually make their appearance in the late teens or early twenties.
When it comes to wisdom teeth, the upper ones are often overlooked as they are not as problematic as the lower ones. However, if your upper wisdom tooth is causing you discomfort, it may be necessary to have it removed. Here’s everything you need to know about removing an upper wisdom tooth.
Why Remove an Upper Wisdom Tooth?
If your upper wisdom tooth is impacted, it means it is trapped beneath the gums and cannot emerge properly. This can cause a number of problems, including:
- Pain and discomfort
- Infection
- Damage to the adjacent tooth
- Cysts
In some cases, an upper wisdom tooth may not cause any noticeable symptoms, but it may be recommended for removal to prevent future problems.
The Removal Process
Removing an upper wisdom tooth is a relatively simple procedure and can be done by a dentist or oral surgeon. The first step is to numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
Once the area is numb, your dentist or oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the wisdom tooth. They may also need to remove some bone to access the tooth. Then, using specialized tools, they will remove the tooth and stitch the incision closed.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with a set of instructions to follow to ensure a speedy recovery. Here are some general guidelines:
- Take pain medication as prescribed to manage any discomfort
- Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few days
- Don’t use a straw or spit vigorously for 24 hours, as this could dislodge the blood clot and delay healing
- Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling
- Rest for the first day after the procedure to allow your body to recover
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your upper jaw, it may be due to an impacted upper wisdom tooth. Removing the tooth can help alleviate your symptoms and prevent future problems. It’s a relatively simple procedure, and with a little bit of care, you can be on your way to a speedy recovery. Just be sure to follow your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions carefully.
