Non-impacted wisdom tooth removal – what you should know

In a recent blog post, we highlighted the different types of wisdom teeth removal. And in this post, we’ll go into more detail around non-impacted wisdom teeth removal.
What are non-impacted wisdom teeth?
Non-impacted wisdom teeth are those that are fully erupted and are above the gum line. This is opposed to impacted wisdom teeth which still remain in the jaw and often can lead to complications down the road.
If your wisdom teeth are non-impacted, you will want to consult your dentist to see if they should be removed or not. Whether or not they should be removed will vary – the answer isn’t always yes.
Who should have non-impacted wisdom teeth removed and why?
First and foremost, be sure to consult your trusted dental professional if wisdom teeth removal is the proper course of action. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, jaw discomfort, teeth shifting, or cavities in these teeth, these could be signs that warrant having your wisdom teeth removed.
Is there pain for removing non-impacted wisdom teeth?
Like any procedure, mild pain post-procedure as you heal is not uncommon. During the procedure you will be fully numbed or sedated so you won’t feel anything during the actual surgery. Since the teeth are not impacted, the procedure is not as invasive as if they were impacted and extracted. Post-wisdom tooth removal, you’ll receive pain medication and antibiotics to help alleviate discomfort while healing.
How long does it take to recover from non-impacted wisdom tooth removal?
You should expect full recovery from your wisdom tooth procedure to take about 10-14 days if proper care is taken. The blood clots that form post-surgery are crucial to the healing process, and if they become dislodged, healing may take longer than originally anticipated. Avoiding hot, crunchy, or spicy foods and sticking to a diet that is soft and more bland will help expedite the healing process.
How do I remove food that gets caught in a wisdom tooth hole?
The short answer is very carefully. It’s not uncommon for food to become trapped in the oral cavities post procedure. A few safe ways to remove debris include: a saltwater rinse, mouthwash, a very gentle brush, or even a cotton swab.
What does it cost to remove non-impacted wisdom teeth?
Most non-impacted wisdom tooth removal is covered by insurance. The team at South Gables Dental can assist you in assessing your dental insurance plan coverage.
What kind of dentist removes wisdom teeth?
Because these teeth are not as complicated to remove as impacted wisdom teeth, a general dentist, periodontal surgeon or an oral surgeon are qualified to remove non-impacted wisdom teeth. Removal of wisdom teeth ranks as one of the most common oral surgeries.
Non-Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal in Coral Gables, FL
South Gables Dental is a top wisdom teeth removal dental practice in Coral Gables. If you need a wisdom tooth consult, look no further than Dr. Lawrence Lesperance and his trusted dental practice.
Sources
Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/food-stuck-in-wisdom-tooth-hole