What are wisdom teeth?

A wisdom tooth, also known as a third molar, is the last tooth to erupt in your mouth. A wisdom tooth growing in its space generally occurs between the ages of 15 and 25. Most individuals are born with 4 wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth often become impacted due to limited space. An impacted wisdom tooth or impacted wisdom teeth occurs when there is a lack of space in your jaw and its growth and eruption are prevented by overlying gum, bone or another tooth. Wisdom teeth symptoms include pain, swelling, infection, and deep periodontal pockets. Wisdom teeth pain can be severe and may be an indication of a dental emergency requiring immediate removal of the teeth.

Is wisdom teeth removal necessary?

Achieving a healthy smile is a considerable achievement but, for many patients, it’s not the end of their treatment goals. They’re seeking to improve the appearance of their teeth as well, whether that means erasing stains, closing gaps, or covering up structural damage. We enjoy being able to improve both a patient’s smile and their self-confidence with the help of transformative cosmetic dentistry solutions.

And studies have proven that a brilliant smile will boost your self-confidence, make you happier, and literally add a few years to your life.

How will I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Some patients will experience discomfort from pressure, infection, inflammation or irritated and deep periodontal pockets when their wisdom teeth emerge. The only way to know for sure if your wisdom teeth need to be removed is to have a dentist evaluate them by taking a Panoramic X-ray or 3D CT scan. Despite the considerable concern regarding impacted wisdom teeth, several recent studies found that third molars which have broken through the tissue and erupted into the mouth, in a normal, upright position, may be just as prone to disease as those third molars that remain impacted. Not all problems related to wisdom teeth are painful or visible. Damage can occur without you being aware of it. No one can predict when wisdom teeth complications will happen, but when they do, wisdom teeth pain can be more severe and difficult to treat, thus complicating surgery. This is why a comprehensive consultation with one of our surgeons who specializes in wisdom teeth extraction and tooth removal is essential.

At what age should wisdom teeth removal be performed?

Some patients will experience discomfort from pressure, infection, inflammation or irritated and deep periodontal pockets when their wisdom teeth emerge. The only way to know for sure if your wisdom teeth need to be removed is to have a dentist evaluate them by taking a Panoramic X-ray or 3D CT scan. Despite the considerable concern regarding impacted wisdom teeth, several recent studies found that third molars which have broken through the tissue and erupted into the mouth, in a normal, upright position, may be just as prone to disease as those third molars that remain impacted. Not all problems related to wisdom teeth are painful or visible. Damage can occur without you being aware of it. No one can predict when wisdom teeth complications will happen, but when they do, wisdom teeth pain can be more severe and difficult to treat, thus complicating surgery. This is why a comprehensive consultation with one of our doctors who specializes in wisdom teeth extraction and tooth removal is essential.

How are wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom tooth removal is now more comfortable than ever. Using IV sedation and local anesthetics, our surgeons can make your dental extraction experience more pleasant than ever. After the gums are numbed, your surgeon meticulously opens the gums up so they can be gently pushed aside. The wisdom tooth is then exposed and extracted. Most often the tooth is dislodged in one whole piece. Occasionally the tooth is removed in two pieces to limit risk to the underlying nerve, or because smaller pieces are easier to remove, making for a smoother tooth removal.

How long is the recovery time after wisdom teeth removal?

Soreness and swelling from wisdom teeth removal may last several days. Ice packs and prescription pain medication help limit pain during the healing period. The sockets normally will close and fully heal in three to four weeks. As with any teeth surgery, you are likely to experience pain, swelling, and some bleeding. The recovery period after oral surgery can take several days, and in some cases, there may still be swelling and discomfort for a week or more. Our doctors recommend using ice packs while enjoying soft foods, and keeping your mouth clean by rinsing with simple salt water. Non-woven sponges and moistened black tea bags can aid in the slowing of any bleeding. If you notice any unusual symptoms like discharge, severe pain or a fever, call us right away. While complications post dental extraction, such as an infection, are rare, they are possible.