6 Things You Need to Know About Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction

A tooth extraction is something no one really wants until their pain tells them otherwise. When it comes to impacted wisdom teeth, extraction is often the best option for relieving pain and protecting the health of your other teeth. Suppose you’re experiencing an impacted wisdom tooth that needs to be extracted. In that case, Dr. Cheng Zhu and his team at Freedom Dental in Fairfield, California, can resolve your issue using the most comfortable and effective treatments.

1. Better Understanding Situations that Make Extraction Necessary

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to severe oral health problems, such as infection, swelling, and even damage to nearby teeth. With routine visits, Dr. Zhu can carefully examine your teeth to find long-term risks to your oral health that can become more difficult and expensive to fix later. Removing impacted wisdom teeth before they become bigger problems will make your smile healthier and you and your wallet much happier.

2. The Different Kinds of Extractions

Extractions are not a one-size-fits-all treatment. There are two types of extractions that cover different situations.

• Surgical extraction: This extraction is needed to remove impacted or partially erupted teeth. This procedure is more common with wisdom teeth. Removal requires a tiny incision in the gums to access and remove the tooth.
• Simple extraction: This is the most common extraction when a tooth is visible and fully erupted. Your dentist will gently loosen the tooth before removing it with forceps.

Dr. Zhu ensures that each type of extraction is done with the utmost care and diligence. He will explain everything clearly and ensure that you feel totally relaxed and comfortable throughout the process.

3. The Extraction Process: How It’s Done

The process begins with your initial consultation, during which Dr. Zhu checks your teeth and discusses the recommended plan. On the day of your extraction, you’ll be given a sedation type, depending on your needs. If you’re getting a surgical extraction, the area where the small incision is made to remove the tooth is stitched up afterward. You may need to rest a while in our office, and someone else may need to drive you home.

4. Post-Extraction: Aftercare and Recovery

Following your extraction, Dr. Zhu will provide clear instructions on what to do and avoid while your body begins healing. You may require prescribed medication for pain. We also recommend applying ice to the sore area to reduce swelling and sticking to soft foods, like mashed potatoes and yogurt, for the first 48 hours. Avoid spicy, acidic, hot, hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, as they can irritate the recovering area. Also, drink lots of fluids, but avoid using a straw.

5. Potential Complications and How to Best Avoid Them

The most common issue after extraction is a dry socket, which occurs when a blood clot dislodges prematurely. The best way to avoid it is not to smoke, avoid using straws, and strictly follow all of Dr. Zhu’s aftercare instructions. You must pay attention to signs like a foul taste in your mouth or throbbing pain. Dr. Zhu will explain everything you need to know to prevent this and other post-extraction issues. He’ll also tell you when to revisit the office, as routine checkups are essential for recovery success.

6. Why It’s Important to Find the Right Dentist

Impacted wisdom teeth require the right amount of skill and experience. Dr. Zhu has years of oral surgery experience and the calm, steady hands needed to deliver the best possible outcome. But, perhaps most importantly, he subscribes to a patient-first philosophy that doesn’t just see you as another number. You can expect the right plan that’s created and supervised by a team that truly cares about you at our office.

Where Can You Schedule a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Booking your consultation with Dr. Zhu is easy. Call Freedom Dental at (707) 416-0626 to schedule your appointment. Remember, early detection can save a much more uncomfortable and expensive treatment, so don’t wait. Visit us to see why so many Fairfield, CA, residents trust Dr. Zhu with their smiles.

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