Your wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars to emerge. Problem is, they don’t always emerge without complication. Due to a lack of jaw space, it is common for the wisdom teeth to grow in sideways, partially erupt or become impacted below the gum line.
Dentists are quick to remove the wisdom teeth when they are displaying signs of trouble. While each tooth plays an important role in how we chew and speak, the wisdom teeth don’t offer significant functional benefits. In short, wisdom teeth are known for causing more harm than good. In order to avoid the uncomfortable consequences of misbehaving wisdom teeth, it is best to just extract them early on. Wisdom teeth removal is commonly performed between the ages of 17 and 25. At this stage, the roots of the teeth are still forming and recovery can be much quicker than it would be if you wait until later in adulthood.
While a quick dental x-ray can determine if your wisdom teeth are erupting poorly, you may also experience some of the following symptoms:
- Pain in your jaw
- Damage to your roots and bone
- Halitosis
- Infection
- Impaction
- Gum disease
- Misalignment
What You Can Expect During Wisdom Tooth Removal
Extracting wisdom teeth is a very routine and straightforward procedure. It is a minor oral surgery that is performed on an outpatient basis. Wisdom teeth removal can involve three methods of sedation: laughing gas (nitrous oxide), local anesthetic, and general anesthesia. You will discuss your preferences in detail before the date of the procedure. Post-operative care at home is very important. You’ll have several stitches in your mouth so that bleeding is kept to a minimum. Mild pain and swelling is common but most patients return to normal activities within 3 days. It will be critical that you do not engage in intense exercise or use a straw to drink, as these are activities that can disrupt the blood clots and cause painful dry socket.
At Park South Dentistry, we provide a clean, safe and comforting environment for those who need wisdom teeth removal. If you have questions about the procedure or to determine if you need to have your wisdom teeth extracted, please call our Central Park office today.
