Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgery procedures, and for good reason. When these third molars do not have enough room to grow in properly, they can cause pain, infection, crowding, and damage to neighboring teeth. At Star Oral Surgery, Dr. Bobst performs wisdom teeth extractions for patients throughout the Treasure Valley, including teens and young adults at the ideal age for removal.
If you or your child has been referred for wisdom teeth removal in Star, ID, here is exactly what to expect.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery?
The procedure itself is straightforward when performed by a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Before surgery begins, your sedation option is confirmed and administered so you are fully comfortable before anything starts.
Star Oral Surgery offers several sedation options for wisdom teeth removal:
- Local anesthesia: Administered directly in the surgical area and can be used alongside other options.
- IV sedation: Delivered through an intravenous line, allowing you to remain semi-conscious and comfortable throughout. Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure.
- General anesthesia: Available for more extensive procedures or patients who require deeper sedation, administered right in the office.
Once sedation is in place, Dr. Bobst removes the wisdom teeth, including any impacted teeth, meaning those trapped beneath the gum line or within the jawbone. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of teeth and the complexity of their position. Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.
What Is the Healing Timeline and What Should You Eat Afterward?
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal is manageable for most patients, especially when the procedure is done between the ages of 16 and 25, before the roots are fully developed. Here is a general timeline of what to expect:
Days 1 to 3:
- Swelling and soreness are at their peak during this window.
- Rest is important, and physical activity should be avoided.
- A soft food diet is essential to protect the surgical sites.
Days 4 to 7:
- Swelling begins to decrease, and discomfort becomes more manageable.
- Most patients return to normal daily activities within three to five days.
- Gentle warm saltwater rinses, started the day after surgery, help keep the area clean.
What to eat during recovery:
Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods that do not require suction or pressure. Good options include:
- Yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies
- Mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and soft pasta
- Soup broth (not too hot)
- Soft fish or well-cooked vegetables
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods until your surgical sites have adequately healed. Dr. Bobst and the team provide detailed post-operative instructions at discharge so you know exactly what to do at every stage of recovery.
What Are the Signs of Dry Socket and How Do You Prevent It?
Dry socket is one of the most common complications following wisdom teeth removal, and it is worth knowing what to watch for. It occurs when the blood clot that forms in the empty tooth socket is dislodged or dissolves too early, leaving the bone and nerves exposed.
Signs of dry socket include:
- Intense, throbbing pain that develops two to four days after surgery
- Pain that radiates toward the ear, eye, or neck on the affected side
- A visible empty socket where the clot should be
- An unpleasant taste or odor coming from the socket
How to prevent dry socket:
- Do not use straws for at least several days after surgery, as suction can dislodge the clot.
- Avoid smoking or tobacco use during recovery, as this significantly increases risk.
- Do not rinse aggressively on the day of surgery.
- Follow all post-operative instructions provided by Star Oral Surgery closely.
If you suspect dry socket, contact our office promptly. It is treatable, and getting care quickly makes a significant difference in your comfort and healing.
Schedule Wisdom Teeth Removal at Star Oral Surgery in Star, Idaho
Whether you are a teen who is proactively referred by your orthodontist or an adult experiencing pain or impaction, Star Oral Surgery is here to help. Dr. Bobst serves patients throughout the Treasure Valley, including Star, Eagle, Middleton, Meridian, Nampa, and surrounding communities.