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A professional and detailed image showing a gloved dentist or surgeon holding an X-ray film of a lower impacted wisdom tooth. The X-ray provides a clear view of the tooth's position in the jaw, highlighting the complexities involved in dental surgery for wisdom tooth extraction. The focus on the gloved hand and the X-ray film emphasizes the precision and care taken in dental diagnostics and treatment planning.

Understanding Wisdom Tooth Removal: A Guide To Tooth Extraction

December 30, 20234 min read

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to erupt. Often, the jaw may not be large enough to accommodate these additional teeth, resulting in the need to remove them.

What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Do They Need to Be Removed?

Explanation of wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. These teeth may not have enough room to grow properly in the mouth, leading to various dental issues.

Reasons for wisdom teeth removal

The need to remove your wisdom teeth arises due to various factors such as impaction, overcrowding, or risk of infection and decay.

Impacted wisdom teeth and their impact

Impacted wisdom teeth may grow at an angle, causing pain, alignment issues, and potential damage to nearby teeth and gums.

Gum disease and wisdom teeth

Having wisdom teeth may increase the risk of gum disease and infections due to difficulties in cleaning these hard-to-reach areas.

Age considerations for third molar removal

Dentists may recommend wisdom teeth extraction at an early age to prevent potential complications and ensure optimal healing.

What Does the Wisdom Teeth Removal Process Involve?

Oral surgeon vs. dentist for wisdom teeth removal

The extraction of wisdom teeth can be performed by a dentist or an oral surgeon, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Anesthesia options for wisdom teeth extraction

Anesthesia options range from local anesthetic to general anesthesia, ensuring patients are comfortable during the extraction.

Extraction procedure and recovery

The tooth may be numb during the extraction process, and post-surgery, the socket is usually covered with gauze to aid in clot formation.

X-ray and other diagnostic procedures

X-rays and diagnostic tests are conducted to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and plan the extraction process accordingly.

Post-extraction care and common complications

Post-extraction care includes following a prescribed diet, oral hygiene regimen, and watching for potential complications such as dry socket.

How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost and How to Prepare for it?

Cost factors for wisdom teeth removal

The cost of wisdom teeth removal is influenced by factors like the type of anesthesia, complexity of the extraction, and post-operative care requirements.

Insurance coverage for wisdom teeth extraction

Insurance coverage for wisdom teeth removal varies, and patients should check with their provider to understand the extent of their coverage.

Preparation steps before wisdom teeth removal

Preparation involves understanding the procedure, arranging for transportation, and following guidelines on fasting before surgery.

What to expect on the day of extraction

On the day of extraction, patients can anticipate sedation, the surgical procedure, and post-operative instructions for care at home.

Post-extraction diet and oral care

After extraction, patients are advised to follow a soft diet and maintain good oral hygiene to aid in the healing process.

What Are the Risks and Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal

Potential risks include nerve damage, dry socket, and infection, while the benefits encompass alleviating pain and preventing future dental problems.

Wisdom teeth removal benefits for oral health

Extraction of wisdom teeth contributes to improved oral health by reducing the risk of crowding, misalignment, and oral infections.

Impact of wisdom teeth removal on adjacent teeth

Removing impacted wisdom teeth prevents potential damage to adjacent teeth as well as the surrounding gum tissue.

Long-term effects of leaving wisdom teeth untreated

Leaving wisdom teeth untreated increases the likelihood of dental complications such as crowding and impaction.

Wisdom teeth removal and facial appearance

Removing wisdom teeth does not typically impact facial appearance, as these teeth do not play a significant role in facial aesthetics.

Consulting with a Dentist or Oral Surgeon for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Indications for consulting a dentist or oral surgeon

Consultation is necessary to evaluate the need for wisdom teeth removal, especially in cases of impaction, infection, or crowding.

Evaluating the need for wisdom teeth removal

Dental professionals assess the necessity of extraction based on an individual's dental health, potential risks, and the presence of symptoms.

Choosing the right dental professional for wisdom teeth extraction

Based on the complexity of the case, patients may be referred to an oral surgeon for specialized extraction or undergo the procedure with their regular dentist.

Importance of regular check-ups after wisdom teeth removal

Regular follow-up appointments ensure the proper healing of extraction sites and the overall oral health of the patient.

Maxillofacial surgery and specialized wisdom teeth removal cases

In complex cases, maxillofacial surgeons may handle specialized wisdom teeth extractions that require additional expertise and resources.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are wisdom teeth, and why do they need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often cause problems because there is insufficient space for them to fully emerge or they may grow in an improper position. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure to address these concerns.

How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

If you are experiencing pain, swelling, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or overcrowding, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. Based on their assessment, they can recommend the need for wisdom teeth removal. If you do not have a dentist, please call us and set up a FREE consultation and x-ray to determine a plan that is right for you.

Why are the third molars referred to as wisdom teeth?

According to the Oxford Dictionary, third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth because their common age of eruption is between 17 and 25. Aristotle explained it this way 2500 years ago!

"The last teeth to come in man are molars called ‘wisdom-teeth’, which come at the age of twenty years, in the case of both sexes. Cases have been known in women upwards of eighty years old where at the very close of life the wisdom-teeth have come up, causing great pain in their coming; and cases have been known of the like phenomenon in men too. This happens, when it does happen, in the case of people where the wisdom-teeth have not come up in early years."

— Aristotle, The History of Animals.

Why do we have third molars if we just remove them?

Third molars helped our human ancestors to grind plant tissue during a time when leafy greens were a more important part of our diet. It is thought that the skulls of our ancestors had larger jaws with more room to accommodate more teeth which helped them to chew foliage more efficiently. This was important because humans lack the ability to efficiently digest cellulose, an important part of plant cell walls. Since the advent of agriculture, almost 10,000 years ago, our diets have become softer and include a larger amount of sugar and high energy foods. These diets have resulted in smaller jaws and not enough room for the wisdom teeth. So when they begin to erupt, they are often painful or crooked and do not fit properly in the mouth. Their removal becomes mandatory for a healthy mouth.

What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?

The process for wisdom teeth removal involves a surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. It typically includes making an incision in the gum tissue, removing any bone that blocks access to the tooth, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces and then removing the pieces and suturing the incision. This procedure ensures the complete removal of the impacted or problematic wisdom tooth.

Does everyone have 4 wisdom teeth?

No, although 4 is the most common number (one in each corner of the mouth); some people have 1, 2 or 3 wisdom teeth and some people don’t have any at all! In rare cases people develop additional teeth in the area of the wisdom teeth call ‘para-molars’ and may have 5 or more!

Does wisdom teeth removal require anesthesia or sedation?

Wisdom teeth removal usually requires some form of anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will discuss the options with you, which may include local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth or general anesthesia to render you unconscious during the surgery. We provide an IV sedation for each patient we see. This guarantees you maximum comfort, no memory of the procedure and a faster recovery.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but it generally takes about a week to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, such as taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs, can aid in a smoother recovery process.

What are the potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal?

Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and temporary or permanent jaw stiffness. However, these complications are relatively rare, and your dental professional will take necessary precautions to minimize the risks.

Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?

Initially, you’ll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the surgery to facilitate healing. As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet. It’s important to avoid straws and hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction sites. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines to follow.

Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?

Prior to wisdom teeth removal, your dental professional will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation. These instructions include: fasting 5-6 hours before the surgery, avoid smoking or using a straw post-surgery, take regularly prescribed medications, apply ice packs, maintain proper oral hygiene, and call us if you encounter any problems on our 24/7 after care nurse line. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.

Will I experience pain during or after the removal?

The procedure itself is usually painless due to anesthesia or sedation. However, it is common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your dentist may prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. Additionally, using home remedies such as applying ice packs and rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.

What are the alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?

In certain cases where the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any problems, they may not need to be removed. Regular monitoring and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure they do not cause complications in the future. However, if extraction is recommended, it is typically the most effective solution to prevent potential issues associated with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.

What does it mean that a wisdom tooth is ‘impacted’?

Your dentist will classify a tooth by the degree to which it has been able to grow out of your jaw bone. If a tooth remains trapped in the bone, usually by a lack of space or close proximity to other teeth, the tooth is considered to be ‘impacted’. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and need to be removed, you will experience some degree of swelling around the lower wisdom teeth. Sometimes patient’s refer to this as the “chipmunk effect” because after surgery you look like you are packing nuts in your cheeks like a chipmunk!

When is the best time to remove the wisdom teeth?

This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your doctor will help you decide when the time is right - They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 25% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.- If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.- Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.- Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.- …And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!

What could happen if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth when my doctor recommends that I do?

If you wait until your adult years to remove your wisdom teeth several things become more complicated about your surgery.- First, at some point in your late-late teens or early twenties, your lower wisdom teeth will grow root tips and finish developing. Once this happens, the risk of the root tips interfering with the nerve in your mandible raises the risk of temporary or permanent numbness in your lower lip and chin.- The older you become, generally the more dense your bone becomes. Increased bone density will increase the difficulty of removing the wisdom teeth and could cause additional swelling and healing time.- Younger patients heal faster and with less complications overall than older patients. Younger patients generally experience less dry socket, pain and swelling than older patients.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket (local alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is lost from the hole left in the jaw after a wisdom tooth is extracted. It generally results in a dull, uncomfortable ache. It is easily treated in the office where you had your wisdom teeth removed.

What can be done to prevent a dry socket?

We see very few dry sockets in our practice! We are excited to provide you with a state of the art procedure called Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to reduce your chances of dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100! We offer this procedure at no charge to you! After placing your IV, we will draw a small amount of blood. That blood will be put into a centrifuge and spun very fast until it separates into distinct layers. One of the layers, the Platelet Rich layer contains numerous white blood cells, neutrophils and other key components of healing. This portion of your blood will be put back into the socket to stimulate bone growth and healing, reduce pain and inflammation and dramatically reduce your chance of dry socket. Dr. Hendrickson believes PRF is so beneficial that he provides this service to all of his patients at no cost. Thanks to PRF treatment we see a very small number of dry socket.

Where are you located?

We have 2 locations. Our Provo & Murray offices are located...

Provo Location:

2230 N University Pkwy #8A

Provo, Utah

84604

(801) 370-0050

Murray Location:

5888 S 900 E #101

Murray, UT

84121

(801) 370-0050

What are your hours?

We are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am -5:00 pm MST.

Surgeries are scheduled on Thursdays (Provo) and Fridays (Murray).

Provo Location:

2230 N University Pkwy #8A

Provo, Utah

84604

(801) 370-0050

Murray Location:

5888 S 900 E #101

Murray, UT

84121

(801) 370-0050

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