Wisdom teeth (third Molar) extractions at New River Valley Dental Care, Christiansburg, VA

Consultation is the first step in your journey. 

Our team will:

• We will perform a complete examination including digital X rays to determine the location and condition of wisdom teeth. This ensures that we fully understand your case so that we can plan the treatment effectively.
• Answer any questions and discuss your symptoms. We can help you with any concerns, whether it's pain or potential complications.
• We will create a treatment plan that is tailored to you. When planning your treatment, we consider your medical history and preferences regarding anesthesia as well as your overall oral health.

Your comfort is our top priority. We offer a variety of anesthesia options.

• Local anesthesia: Anesthetically numbs the area immediately around the wisdom tooth, so you don't feel any pain during extraction.
• Nitrous oxide (Laughing gas): Relaxes and reduces anxiety.
• Oral Sedation: Pre-procedure medication to calm the patient. This is a great option for patients who have mild to moderate anxiety.
• IV Sedation: A deeper level of sedation is ideal for anxious patients or complex extractions. This will ensure that you are comfortable and not aware of the procedure.

• Prepare the Area: After the anesthesia has taken effect, we will carefully prepare the site. It involves sterilising the area and making sure you are fully sedated or numb.
• Extraction: We will remove wisdom teeth using advanced tools and techniques to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues. Small incisions can be made for impacted teeth to gain access to the tooth. If necessary, bone can be removed gently to release the tooth.
• Closure: Stitches can be used to promote healing and decrease the risk of complications. Our precise technique minimizes discomfort and speeds up recovery.

Proper aftercare is crucial for a quick recovery. Our detailed instructions include:

• How to manage pain and swelling: Apply ice packs when needed and use prescribed or over-the counter pain relievers. Ibuprofen, an over-the-counter medication that can reduce swelling and pain, is a good option. After the first 48-hours, alternate between cold and warm compresses.
• Diet modifications: Avoid spicy or hot foods for the first couple of days. Yogurt, applesauce and mashed potato are all good options for foods that won't irritate surgical sites. Slowly reintroduce foods as you heal.
• Oral hygiene: Rinse your mouth gently with warm salted water. Avoid brushing the area near the extraction site at first. It helps to keep the area free of bacteria without interfering with the healing process. After the second or third post-operative day, you can begin gently brushing the surgical area.
• Avoid Smoking and Straws: Both of these activities can cause the blood clot to be dislodged and result in dry socket. This painful condition delays healing.

• The First 24 Hours: Rest, and limit physical activities. Expect some swelling and bleeding. Change gauze as directed by the dentist to control bleeding.
• 2-3 days: The swelling typically peaks, then begins to decrease. Follow your instructions for care to avoid complications.
• After 1 week: The majority of patients resume their normal routine. Stitches are usually removed or dissolve. Following-up appointments are important to ensure that your recovery is proceeding as planned.
• Complete Healing: The healing of the extraction sites may take several weeks. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene during this period and follow your dentist's advice.

Although complications are rare, you should contact us immediately if:

• Pain that is severe and does not improve after taking medication
• Swelling or bleeding that is excessive
• Infections can be identified by fever, discharge or other symptoms.
• Nerve irritation can cause numbness or tingling of the lips, tongue or chin.