Wisdom teeth removal, also known as third molar extraction, is a common surgical procedure performed to remove the third molars, commonly called wisdom teeth. These teeth typically emerge during the late teenage years or early adulthood. However, they often cause problems due to insufficient space in the mouth, improper alignment, or their tendency to become impacted (trapped beneath the gum line).
The primary purpose of wisdom teeth removal is to address potential complications and prevent oral health issues. By removing these problematic teeth, we can alleviate pain, reduce the risk of infection and inflammation, and prevent damage to adjacent teeth and surrounding structures.
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New patients may register with our office prior to their appointment by filling out our secure online patient registration form. The after care instructions cover what to expect after your wisdom teeth are removed.
5 Reasons to Remove Wisdom Teeth
- Impaction: Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough space to fully erupt properly in the mouth. When they become trapped or partially emerge through the gumline, they are considered impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and other dental problems.
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth as they try to erupt, leading to crowding or shifting of the surrounding teeth. This can result in misalignment or orthodontic issues.
- Infection or Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, which can make them difficult to clean properly. This makes them more susceptible to infection, gum disease (periodontal disease), and cavities. Infections can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort.
- Cysts or Tumors: In some cases, cysts or tumors may develop around impacted wisdom teeth. These growths can cause damage to the surrounding bone and tissue and may require surgical removal.
- Decay or Damage: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, which can make them difficult to clean thoroughly. This can result in a higher risk of tooth decay and damage to neighboring teeth.
Dr. Marc extracted my daughters wisdom teeth and was wonderful throughout the whole process. The front desk staff was kind, very well spoken, and very informative of the financial side of everything. The assistants in the back explained the whole process in depth to me and my daughter and went above and beyond to ease our minds. Dr. Marc was very professional and down to earth and ultimately did a wonderful job. I loved that the office called to check on my daughter later in the day.
What Should I Expect for Removing my Wisdom Teeth?
The procedure begins with a thorough evaluation of your oral health, including X-rays, to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. If removal is recommended, we will discuss the specifics of the procedure, addressing any concerns you may have.
What is the Procedure to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
During the actual extraction, our skilled oral surgeon will administer local or general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the process. Incisions may be made in the gum tissue to access the impacted wisdom teeth. The teeth are then carefully removed, sometimes in sections, and the incisions are sutured closed. You will be closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
What is the Recovery Process After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Following the extraction, a period of recovery is necessary. You may experience some swelling, discomfort, and possible mild bleeding for a few days. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions for post-operative care, including pain management techniques, proper oral hygiene practices, and dietary restrictions. It is important to follow these instructions closely to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications.
The recovery period typically lasts about a week, although individual healing times may vary. During this time, it is important to rest, avoid strenuous activities, and maintain good oral hygiene as directed. If any concerns arise, such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection, it is crucial to contact our office promptly.
Wisdom teeth removal is an effective and proactive measure to maintain your oral health and prevent future problems. By addressing the potential complications associated with wisdom teeth, we aim to provide you with lasting relief and preserve the integrity of your smile.
What is Dry Socket?
After wisdom tooth removal, one of the possible complications is a condition known as a dry socket. This occurs when the blood clot that normally forms at the site of the extraction becomes dislodged or dissolves before the area has had a chance to heal. Without this protective clot, the underlying bone and nerves can be exposed, leading to discomfort. While the thought of a dry socket might sound concerning, it’s important to know that it’s relatively uncommon and preventable with proper care.
If you follow our post-operative instructions carefully, including avoiding activities like smoking, using straws, or vigorous rinsing, your chances of developing a dry socket are greatly reduced. Even if a dry socket does occur, it’s easily treatable with a quick visit to your dentist or our office, where we can provide medication and care to alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. The key is to be aware, but not overly worried, and to reach out if you experience any unusual symptoms after your extraction.