Procedure in Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery

Introduction

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may have enough space in their jaws to accommodate these teeth, many others do not. As a result, wisdom teeth may become impacted, grow at an angle, or cause discomfort and oral health issues. In such cases, a surgical removal commonly referred to as wisdom tooth removal surgery is recommended.

This surgical procedure is one of the most frequently performed oral surgeries and is usually conducted by a dental surgeon or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Although the thought of surgery can sound intimidating, the procedure is straightforward, safe, and essential for preventing complications.

 The procedure in Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery is carried out, step by step, so you can understand what to expect if you or a loved one is scheduled for wisdom tooth extraction.

Procedure in Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery

1. Pre-Surgical Evaluation :- Before the actual surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is carried out by the dental surgeon. This includes

• Reviewing dental history
  
• Taking X-rays or a panoramic scan to assess the position and alignment of the wisdom teeth
  
• Checking for infection, decay, or gum issues
  
• Determining the complexity of the case
  

This pre-surgical step helps the surgeon plan the extraction process, choose the appropriate anesthesia method, and decide whether referral to an oral surgeon is necessary.

2. Administration of Anesthesia

Anesthesia is crucial for ensuring a painless and comfortable procedure. Depending on the patient’s preference and the complexity of the case, one of the following is administered:

• Local anesthesia :- Numbs only the surgical area; you remain awake
  
• Sedation anesthesia :- Calms you and dulls your consciousness; administered via IV
  
• General anesthesia :- It is used in rare or complicated cases; renders you fully unconscious
  

Your vitals such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored during the procedure.

3. Incision in the Gum Tissue :- If the wisdom tooth has not erupted fully and is impacted under the gums, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and the underlying bone. This step allows the surgeon to get better access to the tooth for easier extraction. In cases where the tooth has partially erupted, a minimal incision may be enough or not required at all.

4. Bone Removal (if required) :- Sometimes, part of the bone covering the wisdom tooth may obstruct access. In such cases, the surgeon carefully removes a small portion of the bone using a dental drill. This ensures that the tooth can be safely and fully extracted without damaging surrounding structures. This step is common in deeply impacted or horizontally placed wisdom teeth.

5. Tooth Sectioning :- If the tooth is too large or positioned awkwardly, the surgeon may decide to divide it into smaller pieces. Sectioning the tooth allows for easier removal and minimizes trauma to the surrounding bone and tissue. This step is typically done using specialized dental tools like surgical burs or elevators.

6. Tooth Extraction :- Once the tooth is visible and accessible, the surgeon gently loosens it using dental elevators and removes it with forceps. Because the tooth may be tightly anchored, some force and rocking motion may be applied, but this is done with great care. If the tooth was sectioned, each piece is removed one at a time.

7. Cleaning the Surgical Site :- After removing the tooth, the surgeon ensures the socket is clean and free from any debris, bone fragments, or infected tissue. This reduces the risk of infection and promotes faster healing. If needed, the area may be irrigated with a sterile saline solution.

8. Stitching the Wound :- In most cases, dissolvable stitches are placed to close the incision and promote healing. These stitches dissolve on their own within a few days to a week. In some simple extractions, stitching may not be necessary, especially if the tooth was already erupted.

9. Gauze Placement and Recovery Monitoring :- Once the wound is closed, gauze is placed over the extraction site to help control bleeding and encourage blood clot formation. The patient is monitored briefly in the dental office to ensure there are no immediate complications such as excessive bleeding or allergic reactions to anesthesia. Instructions for post-operative care, including how to manage pain, swelling, and diet, are also provided at this stage.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth removal surgery is a commonly performed and highly effective procedure that helps prevent long-term dental complications such as crowding, infection, decay, and cyst formation. The surgical procedure, while involving multiple steps, is carried out efficiently and safely by trained professionals. Understanding the sequence from evaluation to anesthesia, incision, extraction, and closure can make the experience less stressful and more manageable.

While the recovery may take a few days, following the post-operative instructions carefully ensures a smooth healing process. If you’re considering wisdom tooth extraction or have been advised to undergo the procedure, it’s important to consult with a qualified dental surgeon who can walk you through the process and provide personalized guidance.