Wisdom teeth are the last set of adult teeth that usually erupt as an individual matures.
They can be problematic because they generally move the position of the other adjacent molars as they erupt and often need to be removed.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Come In?
In general, the common age bracket for wisdom teeth to come in is between 17 and 25.
However, an individual can grow wisdom teeth before or after this.
As mentioned above, though, not everyone will have wisdom teeth come in.
Moreover, there is no way for you to cause your wisdom teeth to come in or stop them from coming in, once they do.
However, in cases of discomfort, you can get wisdom teeth removal.
What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Although a large majority of the world’s population has wisdom teeth, many of them choose to get these teeth extracted.
Since wisdom teeth come in much later in life, the gum tissue is already thicker and tougher.
As the wisdom teeth erupt, they tear the skin and cause the adjacent molars to be pushed out of their original positions.
This can be extremely uncomfortable and painful for you, and can even lead to an infection if the torn-up gums are not taken care of.
As a result, many people choose to have their wisdom teeth extracted by an oral surgeon as soon as they erupt.
If you plan on having one or all of your wisdom teeth extracted, you must know what to eat after the surgical procedure. Here is a list of foods.
• | Warm and nutritious soups made from shredded meat, vegetables, and mild spices. |
• | Bone broth to aid recovery and improve your health. |
• | Fresh fruit and vegetable juices to increase your overall vitamin C intake. Not only is vitamin C crucial for healing, but it also helps reduce the chances of a bacterial infection. |
• | Fresh or flavored yogurt that is slightly cold. This will help numb any pain. |
• | If you feel tired or nauseous, ice cream, creamy puddings, or applesauce can help increase blood sugar levels and make the overall healing process less stressful. |
• | Once your gums are slightly healed, you can consume solid food. However, avoid having hard, spicy, highly acidic, or hot foods, as they might add to the overall discomfort. Instead, consume boiled chicken with items such as sautéed vegetables and mashed potatoes. |
Finally, once you feel that your extraction sites have fully healed up, discuss the progress with your dentist before you go back to eating all other kinds of foods.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
The exact period of any surgery’s recovery usually depends on your health, the complexity of your condition, and your post-surgery care practices.
If you had a simple and uncomplicated wisdom tooth extraction, and you consumed lots of bone broth and vitamin C rich juices after your surgery, your extraction sites will fully recover within two to three weeks.
Moreover, apart from your diet, you can also practice an additional post-op care routine to further decrease the recovery period and avoid an infection.
Make sure you take the prescribed antibiotics on time and as directed and keep your dental hygiene in check and make sure to brush your teeth and use an anti-inflammatory mouthwash regularly.
Furthermore, use a clean cotton swab to remove any food particles or blood clots from the extraction site.
If you continue to feel pain or discomfort after this period, despite these post-op practices, it is best to consult your dentist before you go back to eating regular food.
Wisdom Tooth Removal in Pineville
However, if your wisdom teeth have come in, and they are causing constant pain or discomfort, the best option for you is to have them professionally extracted.
To discuss the condition of your wisdom teeth, and to schedule an appointment for analysis and extraction, call Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery at our Pineville office at (980) 332-7991.
Our office is proud to offer other services, including Botox, Dental Implants, and more!