Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure

Once wisdom teeth come in, they can cause a number of problems. This is why it is so common for dentists to suggest they be removed. Whatever the reason for their extraction, wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that we do not need. Additionally, wisdom teeth are hard to keep clean which makes them at higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease. For many, this means wisdom teeth extraction is the best option to preserve current and future oral health. Below is more information to help you get an idea of what to expect from the wisdom poulsbo tooth extraction procedure.

Why is extraction necessary?

Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to come in. For most, wisdom teeth should be expected sometime between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people have wisdom teeth that come in and don’t cause any issues. While for many, they start causing issues almost immediately. Here are some of the issues caused by wisdom teeth that will lead dentists to recommend extraction:

  • Impacted wisdom teeth: wisdom teeth are impacted when there is not enough room for them to come in and break through the skin. This means the tooth is trapped within the gum. Impacted wisdom teeth can be painful and can cause damage to other teeth.
  • Shifting or damage to nearby teeth: wisdom teeth can cause damage or shifting to nearby teeth by growing at an angle toward the surrounding teeth.
  • Overcrowding: wisdom teeth are often oversized so when they come in, they can cause overcrowding in the mouth.
  • Difficult to reach: If your wisdom teeth come in and you are not able to reach them when you brush and floss this will cause cavities or tooth decay to develop.

The extraction procedure

Wisdom teeth extraction is a very common procedure that most young adults in the United States have at some point. Here is a brief description of what to expect from the various steps of the procedure:

  • Pre-surgery appointment: prior to surgery, you will meet with your oral surgeon and discuss the procedure. Your surgeon will complete a final exam and review your scans to help plan out a treatment approach.  At this appointment it is important that you are honest about your current health and any prescription drugs you are taking. Also, if you have any questions for your surgeon this is a great time to ask.
  • Surgery: The extraction procedure usually takes about 45 minutes or less. First, you will be administered anesthesia. The surgeon will likely give you a local anesthetic to numb the area of the procedure with a shot of Novocaine.  After the area is numb, your surgeon will give you drugs through an IV in your arm or have you breathe nitrous oxide through a mask. Either way you will feel relaxed through the entire procedure. Once you are out, your surgeon will start the extraction process. This process will vary depending on if your teeth are impacted or partially impacted. After all teeth are removed your surgeon will stitch the wounds so they can heal properly.
  • Post-surgery: After the procedure is complete and you are awake you will need help getting home. Your surgeon will give you post-surgery instructions on how to address pain, what to eat, and how to clean your teeth to help your mouth heal.

More on Tooth Extraction : Healing After Tooth Extraction

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