Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. For many people, these teeth can cause complications such as overcrowding, pain, or infection, making removal necessary. At Thorncrest Dental, we offer expert wisdom teeth evaluations and extractions to ensure your oral health remains optimal.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that develop at the back of your mouth. While some people’s wisdom teeth grow in without issues, others may experience problems such as impaction, misalignment, or overcrowding. These issues often require professional evaluation and, in many cases, extraction to prevent long-term dental complications. Discover more information about wisdom teeth pain and management.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Removing problematic wisdom teeth offers several benefits:
- Prevents overcrowding: Stops teeth from shifting and becoming misaligned.
- Reduces risk of infection: Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to infection or decay.
- Avoids damage to adjacent teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth, causing damage.
- Prevents cysts or tumors: Untreated wisdom teeth can sometimes form cysts, which may lead to further complications.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
While not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, certain situations make extraction more likely:
- Impacted teeth: Teeth that don’t fully emerge from the gum line.
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth pushing against other molars.
- Pain or discomfort: Discomfort at the back of the jaw can indicate the need for removal.
- Risk of decay or infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are prone to trapping food, making them difficult to clean.
Most common reasons to remove wisdom teeth:
- Risk of decay and/or infection
- Impacted teeth
- Crowding concerns
- Pain or discomfort
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
At Thorncrest Dental, we ensure your wisdom teeth removal process is as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s a breakdown of the procedure:
- Consultation and X-rays: The dentist assesses the position and health of your wisdom teeth using digital imaging.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or sedation is administered to ensure a painless procedure.
- Extraction: Depending on the complexity, the tooth may be removed in one piece or sectioned for easier removal.
- Post-Procedure Care: You’ll be provided with detailed aftercare instructions to aid in a smooth recovery.
Types of Wisdom Teeth Issues
Common issues related to wisdom teeth include:
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When the teeth are trapped beneath the gum or only partially erupt.
- Overcrowding: When there isn’t enough room for the wisdom teeth to come in properly, causing alignment issues.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infection.
Longevity and Recovery
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal generally takes about one to two weeks. Proper aftercare includes:
- Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods to avoid irritating the surgical site.
- Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse with salt water and avoid brushing the extraction site for the first day.
- Avoid Straws and Smoking: Sucking can dislodge blood clots and cause dry socket, a painful condition that delays healing.
Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal
The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the complexity of the case, the number of teeth being removed, and your insurance coverage. Thorncrest Dental works with patients to make the procedure as affordable as possible, offering payment options and insurance assistance.
Typical cost for a tooth extraction is $200-$300. If the tooth is fully impacted in the bone then its about $400. All the examination and xray costs are additional.
Before and After Care
- Pre-Procedure: Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the surgery if sedation will be used. Arrange for someone to drive you home.
- Post-Procedure: Follow all care instructions, including resting, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and taking prescribed pain medications to manage discomfort.
Why Choose Thorncrest Dental for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
At Thorncrest Dental, our experienced team uses advanced techniques to ensure your wisdom teeth removal is safe and comfortable. We provide personalized care, ensuring that each patient receives a tailored treatment plan and thorough post-operative instructions. Your comfort and health are our top priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not necessarily. If they grow in properly and don’t cause any issues, they can be left alone. Regular dental check-ups will help monitor their health.
2. Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The procedure itself isn’t painful as local anesthesia or sedation is used. You may experience discomfort during the recovery period, but this can be managed with medication.
3. What happens if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth?
If problematic wisdom teeth are left untreated, they can lead to complications such as infections, cysts, tooth decay, or damage to surrounding teeth.
4. How long does recovery take?
Most people recover within one to two weeks, though it can take longer depending on the complexity of the extraction.
5. How do I know if my wisdom teeth are impacted?
Symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth include pain, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, and tenderness around the back of the jaw.
6. Can wisdom teeth grow back after extraction?
No, once wisdom teeth are removed, they do not grow back. However, if any tooth fragments are left behind, they may need to be addressed.
7. Is the procedure done under anesthesia?
Yes, most wisdom teeth extractions are performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the complexity and patient comfort.
8. What foods can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, yogurt, and applesauce. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods until fully healed.
9. Can I work or attend school after wisdom teeth removal?
Most people take a few days off to recover, but the exact time off will depend on how you feel post-procedure.
10. Will I need stitches after the removal?
In some cases, stitches may be used to close the wound. These stitches are usually dissolvable and will disappear on their own within a week.
