How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Surgery Take? A Comprehensive Guide

Sarhan Basem
credit: hillcountryoralsurgery

Welcome to the world of wisdom teeth! Have you ever wondered about this question: how long does wisdom teeth surgery take? Allow me to enlighten you.

Wisdom teeth, the final four molars at the back of your upper and lower jaws, hold an intriguing position in dental anatomy. Typically, these teeth appear grandly when individuals are between 16 and 20 years old. However, what often comes to mind when discussing wisdom teeth is their inevitable extraction.

Due to their late arrival, wisdom teeth face a common dilemma: simply not enough space to comfortably settle in. Consequently, they may become impacted, trapped beneath the gum line due to neighboring teeth or bone, or emerge at an incorrect angle, causing misalignment among your other teeth.

Given this predicament, the majority of individuals opt to bid farewell to their wisdom teeth. This process begins with a referral from your dentist or orthodontist to a proficient oral surgeon with the necessary certification to perform extractions.

Now, let’s address the primary question at hand: how long does wisdom teeth surgery take? The duration of this procedure can vary depending on several factors. These include the complexity of the case, the total number of wisdom teeth that require extraction, the position and condition of the teeth, and the chosen anesthesia method.

While every case is unique, wisdom teeth surgery typically ranges from a brief, time-efficient process to a more intricate operation. On average, the surgery duration can last anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour. It is important to note that this estimation includes the preparation time, the actual extraction, and the post-operative care instructions that your oral surgeon will provide.

So, if you find yourself on the verge of wisdom teeth extraction, fear not! The procedure, facilitated by a skilled oral surgeon, aims to ensure oral health and prevent potential complications. By bidding farewell to these latecomers, you can pave the way for a healthier and happier smile.

How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Surgery Take?

How long does wisdom teeth surgery take? When you undergo wisdom teeth surgery, a qualified oral surgeon will administer IV anesthesia to relax and sedate you. However, if you prefer to be awake during the procedure, the surgeon can use a local anesthetic to numb your mouth. The entire tooth extraction process typically takes around 30-45 minutes.

The oral surgeon will first open up the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth during the surgery. If there is any bone obstructing the tooth, it will be carefully removed. Then, the surgeon will extract the wisdom tooth in one piece or by dividing it into smaller sections, depending on the situation.

Many patients choose to have all four wisdom teeth removed in a single surgical procedure. This approach saves time and reduces the need for multiple surgeries. After the surgery, you will spend approximately one more hour in a recovery suite before returning home.

Wisdom teeth surgery is a straightforward procedure. It is important to consult with a board-certified oral surgeon who can guide you through the process and address any concerns you may have. Whether you opt for sedation or stay awake, the surgeon will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the surgery.

Remember to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. If you have any questions or experience unusual symptoms after the surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your oral surgeon for guidance and support.

Recovery

During the healing process, you may experience some swelling, slight bleeding, and discomfort, which usually lasts for about three days. To alleviate any pain or swelling, your doctor will prescribe medication. You can also use ice packs or cold compresses to help with the swelling. Applying warm towels or moist heat packs to the outside of your jaw can help relieve any soreness you may feel.

In terms of diet, it’s best to stick to soft foods for the first few days and ensure you drink plenty of fluids. On the second day of recovery, you can start brushing your teeth again, but be careful to avoid the area that underwent the procedure until it has fully healed.

Throughout the recovery period, your surgeon will advise you to avoid engaging in strenuous physical activities to allow your body to heal properly.

Final Words: How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Surgery Take?

Hopefully, you are clear about the query: how long does wisdom teeth surgery take? It is always good to follow different precautions to make the healing process fast. Don’t smoke and eat hard food. This action makes your healing process slow!

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Sarhan Basem is Brussels Morning's Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful commentary and in-depth coverage. Beyond the world of journalism, Sarhan is an avid traveler, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and enjoys unwinding with a good book or indulging in outdoor adventures whenever possible.