Wisdom Teeth Removal: Your Questions Answered

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the back of the mouth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may have enough room in their mouths to accommodate these teeth, many others experience problems as a result of their wisdom teeth. In these cases, wisdom teeth removal may be recommended.

What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause?

The most common problems associated with wisdom teeth include impaction, infection, and crowding. Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not have enough room to fully emerge from the gums, which can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Infection can occur if food and bacteria become trapped around the wisdom teeth, leading to an abscess. Crowding occurs when the wisdom teeth push against the other teeth, causing them to shift out of place.

How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth removal is typically done by an experienced doctor, like Dr. Smith, under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

There are several different techniques that can be used to remove wisdom teeth. The most common method is called a simple extraction, which involves the surgeon making an incision in the gums to remove the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be split or broken into smaller pieces before it can be removed. This is called a surgical extraction.

How Long Does It Take To Recover?

Recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the number of teeth removed, but most patients can return to normal activities within a week.

After the procedure, the patient will be given instructions on how to care for the extraction site, including how to manage any pain or swelling. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

Do I Need To Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. But it is important to have an evaluation to determine if they are causing problems or not. If we see issues such as impaction, infection, or crowding, we will recommend that you have them removed. It may also be recommended as a preventative measure if there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to emerge.

Is There Any Pain After The Procedure?

Some pain and swelling is normal after wisdom teeth removal. The doctor will provide pain medication to manage any discomfort. It is important to follow the instructions provided by our doctor for proper healing.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include bleeding, infection, and nerve damage. However, the risk of complications is low, and the procedure is considered to be one of the safest and most common.

To schedule a wisdom teeth evaluation, call our Provo office at (801) 375-1414.