Wisdom Teeth
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars in the back of your mouth. They usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25, and they’re spotted on X-rays. Most people have them removed for one of these reasons:
- Impacted wisdom teeth are too far back in your mouth, so they may not come in normally. This can trap them and cause pain in your jawbone.
- They may come in at the incorrect angle.
- Your mouth may not be large enough for the teeth to come in, so they need to be taken out.
- Gum disease and cavities can be caused by an inability to properly reach the teeth during brushing and cleaning.
Before Surgery
Meet with an oral surgeon to talk about the procedure. At this appointment, be sure to discuss:
- Discuss health problems.
- List any drugs currently being taken.
- Ask questions about the surgery.
- Discuss what type of anesthesia options are available.
- Plan time off from work or school.
During Surgery
Your surgery should take 45 minutes or less.
There are several anesthesia options:
- Local: Your doctor will numb your mouth with a shot of a local anesthetic. The option to breathe nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, makes the procedure more relaxing. The effects of this wear off quickly.
- IV sedation: The surgeon numbs the mouth and also administers drugs through a vein in the arm to make the patient drowsy. Sleeping through the entire procedure is common.
- General: Administered drugs through a vein or breathing gas through a mask. Patients are asleep the whole time and might not wake up for an hour or so after the surgery.
Your doctor may have to cut the gums or bone to remove the teeth. If so, they’ll stitch the wounds shut so they heal quickly. These stitches usually dissolve after a few days. Gauze pads are used to soak up some of the blood.
Full-Service Dental Center & Urgent Care Facility
Comprehensive dentistry starts with prevention and includes everything you need to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. Find out for yourself today! Contact Family Care Dental to schedule a consultation today.
