Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, usually emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, these teeth can cause overcrowding, pain, or other dental problems if they don’t have enough room to grow properly. At Preston Meadow Family Dentistry, we provide expert care for wisdom teeth removal and, in some cases, may refer complex extractions to trusted oral surgeons for specialized care.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Not everyone’s wisdom teeth need to be removed, but extraction may be necessary if they cause problems such as:
- Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth that don’t fully emerge or grow sideways, leading to pain and infection.
- Overcrowding: Limited space in the mouth can cause misalignment of surrounding teeth.
- Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap bacteria and food, increasing the risk of cavities and gum infections.
- Cysts or Infections: Impacted wisdom teeth can develop cysts or other complications that affect nearby teeth and jawbone.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Pain or swelling at the back of your mouth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums around the area
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule an evaluation to determine if removal is necessary.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
- Consultation and Exam: We’ll take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if extraction is needed.
- Numbing and Sedation Options: We’ll ensure your comfort with local anesthesia and offer sedation options if needed.
- Tooth Removal: For straightforward cases, we carefully extract the tooth or teeth in our office.
- Referral to Oral Surgeons: If the extraction is complex or requires surgical intervention, we will refer you to one of our trusted oral surgeons.
- Aftercare Instructions: We’ll provide detailed aftercare guidelines to ensure proper healing and comfort.
Aftercare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Control Bleeding: Bite gently on gauze to manage bleeding.
- Manage Swelling: Use an ice pack to reduce swelling in the first 24 hours.
- Follow a Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot drinks or straws for a few days.
- Keep the Area Clean: Rinse gently with warm salt water to maintain oral hygiene.
- Take Medications as Prescribed: Follow any pain relief or antibiotic instructions provided.
Do You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but regular dental checkups help us monitor their development. If removal is necessary, we’ll guide you through the process to ensure a smooth experience, either in our office or with one of our trusted oral surgeons.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you are experiencing discomfort from your wisdom teeth or need an evaluation, Preston Meadow Family Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and find out if wisdom teeth removal is the right option for you!
