• Infections: Wisdom teeth that aren’t kept clean may develop several infections, including pericoronitis, which is an inflammation of the gums around a partially erupted tooth. Infection can cause many other problems, and wisdom teeth likely to cause it should be removed.
• Damage to Surrounding teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against nearby teeth, causing them to move out of alignment or even become damaged.
• Ulcers: Crowded wisdom teeth often lean sideways and rub against the cheek, which may cause ulcers on the cheek and chewing problems.
• Cysts: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts, which can cause damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

At Philadelphia Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we strive to provide our patients with a comfortable and stress-free experience. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during the wisdom teeth removal process with Dr. Nguyen:

Consultation

Before the procedure, you will meet with Dr. Nguyen for a consultation to discuss your oral health and determine if wisdom teeth removal is necessary. During this appointment, you can ask any questions you may have about the procedure and discuss any concerns you may have.

Anesthesia

Depending on your individual needs and preferences, Dr. Nguyen may recommend a combination of local anesthesia, sedation dentistry, and general anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure.

Extraction

During the procedure, Dr. Nguyen will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the wisdom tooth. If necessary, she may remove a small piece of bone to fully extract the tooth. In certain cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into pieces to make it easier to remove. Once the tooth is removed, the incision will be closed with stitches.

Diet Recommendations

• Start with clear liquids like apple or cranberry juice, or ginger ale.
• Progress to a soft diet as tolerated, including options like Jell-O® or mashed potatoes.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the surgical site.

Medication

• Take prescribed medications, including pain relievers, antibiotics, and anti-nausea medication, following the provided instructions.
• Use the recommended antibacterial rinse as directed.

Bleeding

• Some bleeding, oozing, or redness in saliva is normal.
• Apply firm, continuous pressure with the provided gauze pack to manage bleeding.
• Replace the gauze pack as needed, ensuring it's positioned behind the last molar and over the extraction site.

Swelling

• Reduce swelling by applying an ice pack to the surgical area for the initial 24 hours.
• If provided, take prescribed anti-inflammatory medication to further alleviate swelling.

Oral Hygiene

• Gently brush your teeth, avoiding the surgical area, beginning the day after surgery.
• Follow instructions for rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater or an antibacterial mouthwash.
• Refrain from forceful spitting or rinsing for the first 24 hours to protect healing blood clots.

Activity and Rest

• Rest and limit physical activity for the initial 24 to 48 hours post-surgery.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that might raise blood pressure and lead to bleeding.

Follow-Up Care

• Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your oral surgeon.
• Contact your oral surgeon if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or other concerns.

Hydration and Nutrition

• Consume at least five to six glasses of water daily.
• Maintain regular meals and a balanced diet to support healing and overall strength.