Wisdom Teeth Removal
Our wisdom teeth, also known as our third molars, are the last adult teeth to grow in. They’re located in the back, two on top and two on the bottom—four in total. Typically, they emerge through the gum line in early adulthood—from the late teens to mid-twenties.
Some people never get their wisdom teeth at all, and some people’s wisdom teeth grow in without any problems. However, it’s very common for wisdom teeth to become impacted because there simply isn’t enough room for them.
Here at KK Dental, we perform wisdom tooth extractions regularly on our patients who have developed or are at risk of developing impacted wisdom teeth.
About Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a lot of pain as it continues to try growing in. It will apply undue pressure to the teeth next to it, potentially causing structural damage. Impacted wisdom teeth are also prone to developing tooth decay, gum disease, and infection. Furthermore, impacted wisdom teeth can also cause the development of cysts in the gums in the surrounding area.
If one or more wisdom teeth start posing any of these issues, or if your dentist anticipates these problems developing, a wisdom tooth extraction will be necessary.
The Procedure
While a wisdom tooth extraction is considered surgery, it’s still an outpatient procedure—which means it’s performed in our office, and you will go home when it’s finished.
Your dentist will administer anesthesia to make sure you’re comfortable and so that you cannot feel anything during the extraction. The type of anesthesia used will depend on both your own comfort and the complexity of your wisdom tooth extraction. Three types of anesthesia can be used—general, local, and sedation.
The wisdom tooth or teeth will be extracted from the jawbone, and the incision will be cleaned. In some cases, stitches will be used to close the wound. Gauze will help stop the bleeding.
You will recover comfortably in our office, and given post-operative instructions for at home. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions clearly and to keep a close eye on symptoms that seem out of the ordinary.
It’s uncommon for a follow-up appointment to be made, as most of our patients recover from wisdom tooth extractions well, but our team is always on hand to make sure your oral health is in great shape, and you’re feeling comfortable.