Wisdom teeth are a fascinating aspect of dental health that many people might not be fully aware of. Typically, they are the last set of teeth to appear, usually emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. For some, wisdom teeth cause no problems and are a welcome addition to the mouth or they do not appear at all. But for others, they can cause a number of dental issues, leading to the need for wisdom tooth extraction.

Unfortunately, our mouths often don’t have enough room to comfortably accommodate these late arrivals. This can lead to wisdom teeth becoming ‘impacted’ – a term used when a tooth is unable to fully emerge through the gum, causing it to grow at an angle. This can trigger a range of issues, from inflammation and pain, to infection and damage to surrounding teeth.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of wisdom tooth problems is crucial in spotting issues early and seeking appropriate treatment. So, what are the tell-tale signs of wisdom tooth trouble?

Causes and Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Pain

Wisdom tooth pain symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, depending on the cause of the issue. Common signs of wisdom tooth problems include persistent pain or discomfort in the back of the jaw, swelling around the affected area, difficulty opening the mouth, and occasionally, an unpleasant taste in the mouth or bad breath.

Impacted wisdom teeth are a major cause of these symptoms. When a tooth is unable to fully emerge, it can cause inflammation and swelling in the surrounding gum tissue. This can also lead to infection, as food and bacteria become trapped in the space around the impacted tooth.

Another common cause of wisdom tooth pain is tooth decay. Because of their location in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean effectively. This can lead to decay and cavities, which can cause significant discomfort.

Preparing for Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Before your wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. This may include avoiding certain medications and food and drink for a period of time before the surgery. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

You’ll also need to arrange for someone to accompany you to the appointment, particularly if you’re being sedated for the procedure. They will need to drive you home after the surgery and ideally stay with you for the first few hours as the anesthesia wears off.

In the days leading up to the surgery, try to get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet. This will help your body to recover more quickly after the extraction.

Understanding Wisdom Tooth Extraction: The Procedure

So, what happens if you need a wisdom tooth extraction? The procedure is performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist with specialized training in oral surgery.

1. The process starts with a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. In some cases, you may be offered sedation or general anesthesia, particularly if you’re having multiple wisdom teeth removed at once.
2. Once the area is numb, the surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth.
3. If the tooth is impacted, they may need to remove some of the bone around the tooth.
4. The tooth is then carefully removed, and the incision is stitched closed.
5. While the thought of wisdom tooth extraction can be daunting, it’s important to remember that the procedure is very common and is typically performed without any complications. 

Factors Influencing the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

The wisdom tooth extraction cost can vary widely, depending on a number of factors. These include the complexity of the extraction, the type of anesthesia used, and the region in which you live. For example, wisdom teeth removal cost Chennai may be different from the cost in other cities or countries.

In addition, your personal health insurance plan can greatly influence the final cost of the procedure. Some plans cover a portion of oral surgery procedures, while others may not provide any coverage at all. It’s important to consult with your insurance provider to understand what is covered and what your out-of-pocket expenses may be.

Post-Surgery Care: Tips and Recommendations

After your wisdom tooth extraction, it’s crucial to follow your dentist’s post-surgery care instructions carefully. This will help to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of complications, such as infection.

In the first few days after the procedure, you may experience some swelling and discomfort in the mouth. This can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and the application of a cold pack to the outside of the face.

You’ll also need to eat a soft diet for a few days, avoiding hard or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Be sure to keep the mouth clean by brushing and flossing gently, but avoid the extraction site for the first day or so.

Conclusion: Wisdom Tooth Extraction – A Necessary Investment

While the thought of wisdom tooth extraction and its cost can be daunting, it’s important to remember that this procedure can greatly improve your dental health and overall well-being. If you’re experiencing wisdom tooth pain symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult with a dental professional at Radiant Dental. 

Our team of dentists is one of the best in Chennai and ensures that you undergo a successful wisdom tooth extraction procedure. Our painless procedures are designed for the people who are afraid of the dentists and are looking forward to painless dental surgery. Book an appointment today to know more.