Wisdom Teeth Removal

Why Should I Remove my Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth removal is commonly necessary for the following reasons:

• Gum inflammation

• Tooth decay

• Misalignment of healthy teeth

• Swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and pain

• Bad breath in the mouth

• Increased risk of tumor growth and cyst development

• Damage to the second molars

What Does Removal Require

Your course of treatment depends on the root development and position of the molars. If they have fully grown through the gums they can be extracted like any other tooth; however, when they are still beneath the gums and blocked from growing through the gums (impacted) they will require a surgical procedure. During the surgical approach, an incision is made around the area and any bone that lies over the tooth is removed, followed by the removal of the tooth.

All wisdom tooth extractions require local anesthesia (an injection to numb the gum around the tooth being extracted). Nitrous oxide gas and minimal sedation may also be utilized to help ease any presurgical anxiety you may have. We will discuss with you what type of sedation may be best for your needs. Before your procedure, you will receive a thorough oral examination, x-rays, and most likely a 3D scan of your mouth in order to properly plan your procedure.

The Value of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Many people don’t realize the dangers associated with wisdom teeth if they are left untreated. In modern human history, most people’s mouths are too small for the wisdom teeth to grow in properly, which means they often develop improperly. Improper development generally results in impaction, which can then cause more serious problems, such as infection, cysts, pain, and even tumors. The value of having your third molars extracted far outweighs the cost of the removal procedure. Once the teeth are extracted, there is no longer a risk of them damaging adjacent teeth or bone, which can be costly to repair.