TD Dental Group has helped many patients with wisdom teeth and the related dental challenges that wisdom teeth can cause when left untreated. Our team wants to make sure you are informed and comfortable asking questions about your oral health. If you have questions about your wisdom teeth, we hope this article can answer some of those questions. For additional questions or to receive quality treatment and service, call and schedule your appointment today.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the molars at the very rear of your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth. Two on the top, and two on the bottom. The teeth usually appear between the ages of 16 and 25. Wisdom teeth become impacted because they do not have enough room to develop normally. An impacted wisdom tooth may partially emerge so that some of the teeth are visible or be fully trapped inside the gums. Whether partially or fully impacted, wisdom teeth usually have to be removed because they create problems with teeth function, alignment, and other oral health issues.
When Should You See A Dentist?
- - - Red or swollen gums
- - Tender or bleeding gums
- - Jaw pain
- - Swelling around the jaw
- - Bad breath
- - An unpleasant taste in your mouth
- - Difficulty opening your mouth
Why Should You Receive Treatment For An Impacted Tooth?
● Cysts
● Decay
● Gum disease
● Disturbance of the natural tooth alignment or orthodontic treatment
● Damage to the jawbone
What Treatment Options Are Available For Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
What Should You Expect During the Extraction Process?
The extraction process includes:
- Anesthesia. Local anesthesia numbs your mouth, sedation anesthesia depresses your consciousness, or general anesthesia, which makes you lose consciousness to ensure the process is pain-free. Everyone responds differently to anesthesia and you can speak to our doctors about any concerns you may have.
- Tooth removal. During an extraction, our dentist makes an incision in your gums and removes any bone that blocks access to the impacted tooth root. After removing the tooth, the dentist closes the wound with stitches and packs the empty space with gauze.
- Observation. Once the procedure is over your observation process begins. The period of observation varies on what type of anesthesia or sedation you used and your body’s response to it.
- Healing at home. Once at home, your full recovery is our priority. Most people feel little to no pain after surgery and any discomfort is usually managed by over-the-counter pain medication. Mild swelling and discomfort are normal, but if you experience severe pain or are having trouble sleeping, contact us immediately. It can take a few weeks for the gums to completely heal. We will give you a list of recovery aids that can help you support your healing process.