Why Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Wisdom teeth represent the back set of molars in your mouth, which are the last to emerge and typically don’t offer significant functional benefit to your smile. Unfortunately, wisdom teeth are most known for the trouble they can cause. It is common for these back molars to start causing problems during late adolescence to early adulthood. Due to their location in the back of the mouth, the wisdom teeth often don’t have enough room to fully erupt or erupt in the correct way. Patients can have wisdom teeth that come in sideways, partially erupt through the gum line or get fully impacted within the jaw. Overcrowding can lead to decay within your smile and even misalignment if the wisdom teeth are pushing on the surrounding teeth.

Your dentist will keep a close watch on your wisdom teeth as they try to emerge. If x-rays show a risk for impaction, wisdom teeth removal is typically suggested. Impacted wisdom teeth means that the wisdom tooth is disturbing other teeth or growing in at an odd angle. Not only can this cause pain, but it also allows food to get trapped under the gums, which leads to tooth decay or gum disease. In severe cases, impaction can trigger an abscess in the jaw as well as crooked teeth that will need orthodontic treatment.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

At Laguna West Dental, we want put patients at ease when it comes to wisdom teeth removal. The procedure itself is straightforward and even painless thanks to sedation dentistry. If necessary, a portion of the gums or bone that is covering your wisdom teeth may need to be removed prior to the extraction. This is all performed with remarkable precision and any wounds are carefully closed with stitches.

Recovery from wisdom teeth surgery is also nothing to fear. We will give you detailed post-operative instructions when you leave the office, as well as prescribed pain medication if needed. Typically, discomfort is only present for the first 1-2 days, and pain is effectively managed with over-the-counter remedies. During your recovery, take the time to rest, stay hydrated and eat soft, easy-to-chew foods. It is important to avoid strenuous activity and drinking through a straw, as these can result in dry socket, or the disruption of the blood clot at the extraction site. An ice pack can be used to reduce any swelling or inflammation.

Are your wisdom teeth causing problems? Just because you do not suffer from symptoms of wisdom tooth impaction, doesn’t mean you aren’t at risk. See a trusted dentist for an accurate evaluation. Call Laguna West Dental today.