What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the four adult permanent teeth that can erupt near the top and bottom back corners of your gums. They’re also known as your third molars and usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Because you don’t need wisdom teeth and they can cause oral health problems in some instances, many patients undergo wisdom teeth extraction to prevent complications.
Is wisdom teeth extraction right for me?
To find out if you’re a good candidate for wisdom teeth removal, Dr. Williams reviews your oral health history, examines your mouth, and takes dental X-rays. It’s often a good idea to remove wisdom teeth if:
- You’re at risk of dental problems
- Impacted wisdom teeth cause pain
- You have a small mouth
- Wisdom teeth grow in at an angle
- You develop a cyst around wisdom teeth
- Wisdom teeth damage surrounding teeth
Some people don’t develop wisdom teeth, while others have wisdom teeth that erupt normally without causing oral health problems. Dr. Williams lets you know if wisdom teeth extraction is right for you.
What happens during wisdom teeth extraction?
Prior to wisdom teeth removal, you’re greeted by warm, welcoming staff at Ideal Dental of Tucson. You’re given anesthesia so you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. You might be fully asleep during surgery or receive a sedative to help you relax.
Dr. Williams makes a tiny incision in your gums to remove wisdom teeth, one at a time. After the procedure, he closes incisions and uses gauze to stop any bleeding. You relax in a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off and can go home the same day as your procedure. Someone must drive you there, however.
What should I expect after the procedure?
Get plenty of rest after wisdom teeth extraction and take medications as prescribed. You can follow a soft foods diet initially and work your way up to eating harder foods over time. Avoid drinking through a straw or vigorously rinsing your mouth right after surgery. Doing so creates suction, which can loosen blood clots and delay healing.
Attend follow-up appointments if Dr. Williams recommends it and call the office if you experience worsening pain or signs of infection.
To find out if wisdom teeth extraction is right for you, call the Ideal Dental of Tucson office today or use the online booking tool.
