Wisdom Teeth Removal in Alaska: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure many people undergo during their late teens or early twenties. In Alaska, where access to specialized dental care can be limited, Alaska Oral Surgery Group provides wisdom teeth removal to Anchorage, Eagle River, and Wasilla residents in a single, easily accessible location, ensuring your convenience and peace of mind.

What to Expect During the Extraction Procedure

Wisdom teeth removal is generally an outpatient surgery Dr. Szutz performs at our Anchorage office. The procedure follows the same general steps for most patients:

1. Consultation and Imaging: Before surgery, we take X-rays or digital images to evaluate the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. This helps determine the complexity of the procedure and how Dr. Szutz will approach the extraction process.
2. Anesthesia Options: You’ll discuss anesthesia options, which may include local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and the difficulty of the extraction.
3. The Extraction Process: The surgery itself usually takes 45 minutes to an hour. Dr. Szutz makes small incisions in the gums to access and remove the teeth. Stitches may be used to close the area.
4. Recovery: After the procedure, you’ll be monitored closely by a member of our care team before being sent home to recover. You will need someone to drive you home, as the lingering effects of the anesthesia will make it impossible for you to drive yourself.

Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Proper preparation can make your recovery easier and more comfortable. Due to Alaska’s unpredictable weather conditions, please be sure to have anything you’ll need during recovery ready before your surgery. Please arrange for your transportation after surgery, as most of our patients choose sedation for wisdom teeth removal.

Before your surgery, stock up on plenty of liquids, including clear broths and non-carbonated beverages. Also, fill your kitchen with soft, easy-to-eat foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and soups to avoid straining your healing gums.

For at least eight hours before your wisdom tooth surgery, do not eat or drink anything if you’re undergoing sedation. Anything in the stomach can increase the risk of nausea and vomiting, leading to aspiration or choking.

Contact your school or employer to let them know you will take some time off for surgery, rest, and recovery. Most patients take 2-3 days off. If your surgery is difficult or there are complications, you may need more time.
 

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery period typically lasts a few days to a week. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth healing process:

• Manage Swelling and Pain: Apply an ice pack to your face for the first 24 hours and take prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter alternatives as directed.
• Stick to a Soft Diet: Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the surgical site.
• Keep the area Clean: Gently rinse with saltwater starting 24 hours after surgery, but avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting.
• Avoid Smoking or Straws: These can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful dry socket.

Unique Considerations for Alaskans

Living in Alaska presents unique challenges regarding wisdom teeth removal, particularly if you live in a remote area and are traveling to Anchorage for wisdom teeth removal. Planning ahead is critical if you will be traveling to any distance for oral surgery. Since travel can be unpredictable in the winter, schedule your wisdom teeth extraction when weather conditions are less likely to disrupt your plans.

If you live in a remote area or are far from a dental office or emergency room, arrange for a family member or friend to stay with you during at least the first 48-72 hours following surgery. They can assist you with food preparation, ensure your comfort, and monitor you for any symptoms of infection or complications.

An alternative is to consider booking a hotel room in Anchorage for the first two to three days after wisdom teeth removal. You can relax and enjoy watching television, catch up on your reading, and enjoy room service just a stone’s throw away from our office in case of a complication.

Dr. Szutz and his team routinely perform wisdom teeth extractions for patients in and around Anchorage, AK  Alaska Oral Surgery Group Office Phone Number 907-278-5678.