Viva Smile Dental Blogs

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the human mouth, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. These are called 'wisdom' teeth because they come in at a more mature age. While some people have room in their mouths for these additional teeth, others may experience pain, infection, or other dental problems, often leading to the need for extraction.

At Viva Smile, we perform wisdom teeth removal and we will help you through the process. After getting X-rays and a CBCT scan to understand the condition of your wisdom teeth, we’ll prepare a treatment plan for your surgery.

This procedure is typically performed under anesthesia so you won't feel pain during the extraction. Although the recovery period may involve some swelling and discomfort, it’s easily manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. Here's what you should know to prepare for a wisdom tooth extraction:

Dos and Don'ts Before Tooth Extraction

Before the wisdom teeth removal, our surgical dentist, Dr. Káren Baghdasaryan, will provide you with detailed instructions. Ensure you follow these carefully, as they will help you get a successful procedure and swift recovery.

DO

• Inform us about your medical history. This includes any allergies, health conditions, and medications you currently take so we can take necessary precautions.
• You must fast for at least six hours before the wisdom tooth removal. We recommend starting your fast by midnight before your appointment. Do not eat or drink anything including water before your appointment.
• You should also arrange for a companion to drive you home post-surgery.
• Have a nutritious meal before your fasting period since you'll be advised not to eat or drink anything for a few hours after the procedure.
• Rest as much as you can within the first 3-5 days after to help you heal quicker.
• Keep the extraction site clean with mouthwash and brush the rest of your teeth as normal.
• Take your prescribed medication as instructed to reduce pain and avoid infection.
• Stock up on soft foods such as yogurt, pudding, or soup to eat for your wisdom teeth removal recovery, as your mouth will be sensitive.

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DON’T

• Avoid smoking for as long as possible before and after the surgery.
• Alcohol can interfere with anesthetics and medications used during the procedure, so avoid consumption for at least 24 hours before and a few days after your appointment.
• Do not sip or drink water for at least 6 hours prior to your appointment.
• Do not use a straw to drink any liquids after your surgery to avoid dry sockets.
• Avoid eating crunchy, hard or sticky foods.
• Don’t lift heavy weights or exercise until your doctor says it’s safe, usually 48-72 hours.

Recovery can take anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks. We can provide a doctor’s excuse letter for a reasonable period of time depending on your progress.

The need for getting wisdom teeth out arises for several reasons: impaction (when the tooth doesn't have enough space for emerging or growing), an angle that may damage adjacent teeth or a hard-to-reach position that complicates oral hygiene leading to potential cavities or gum disease.

For some people, experiencing wisdom teeth pain can become chronic, limiting regular activities such as chewing or drinking hot and cold liquids. This situation can lead to an emergency wisdom tooth removal.

If you live in the San Fernando Valley or Los Angeles and are currently suffering any of the described signs, our experienced dentists at Viva Smile in Van Nuys and Granada Hills will take care of you. Dr. Gohar Hovsepyan and Dr. Káren Baghdasaryan will do a thorough examination of your oral condition and recommend getting your wisdom teeth removed. Get in contact with us today and get free of your wisdom teeth.