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Wisdom teeth in Alabaster, AL, Anniston, AL, Gadsden, AL, and Carrollton, GA, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to erupt in the mouth, typically between the ages of 17 and 25.
While some people may have sufficient space in their jaws to accommodate these teeth without issues, many individuals experience problems due to late eruption, misalignment, or insufficient space in the jaw. These issues can lead to various dental problems such as impaction (when the tooth is trapped beneath the gum and unable to fully emerge), crowding of adjacent teeth, infection of the surrounding gums, cyst formation, and decay. Therefore, removing wisdom teeth is often necessary to prevent these complications, maintain oral health, and ensure the proper alignment and function of the remaining teeth. Early evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon can determine the need for extraction based on the position, growth, and potential impact of wisdom teeth on overall dental health.
Common Issues With Wisdom Teeth
- Wisdom teeth may become impacted, meaning they cannot fully erupt through the gum line. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection in the surrounding gum tissue.
- The emergence of wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding in the mouth, pushing existing teeth out of alignment. This can affect bite function and overall dental health.
- Due to their location and difficulty in cleaning, partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria accumulate, leading to infections such as pericoronitis (inflammation of the gum tissue around the tooth).
- Wisdom teeth that emerge at an angle or are impacted can push against neighboring teeth, potentially damaging their roots or increasing the risk of decay.
- In rare cases, wisdom teeth may develop cysts or tumors. If not treated promptly, these can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
- Many individuals experience pain, discomfort, or tenderness in the gums and jaw when their wisdom teeth erupt or become impacted.
- Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are often challenging to clean thoroughly. This increases the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
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The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process The journey typically begins with a thorough dental examination and X-rays to assess the wisdom teeth' position, size, and orientation. This evaluation helps determine if extraction is necessary and the best approach for the procedure. Factors such as the angle of eruption, proximity to nerves and sinuses, and the presence of infection or decay influence the treatment plan.
Before the procedure, our dentist or oral surgeon will discuss anesthesia options to ensure comfort during the extraction. Local anesthesia numbs the extraction site, while sedation options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, or intravenous (IV) sedation can be administered to help you relax or remain unaware of the procedure.
The extraction begins with the dentist or oral surgeon making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and underlying bone. In cases where the tooth is impacted (partially or fully trapped beneath the gum or bone), it may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. Careful attention is given to avoid damaging surrounding teeth, nerves, and tissues.
Once the tooth is removed, the extraction site is thoroughly cleaned to remove debris or bacteria. In some cases, stitches may be necessary to close the wound, which can be dissolvable or require removal after a few days. Gauze is typically placed over the extraction site to help control bleeding and promote clot formation. Call us to learn more.
The Benefits of Removing Wisdom Teeth
- Removing wisdom teeth before they cause problems such as impaction, crowding, or damage to adjacent teeth helps prevent future dental complications. By eliminating the risk of these issues, patients can maintain optimal oral health and avoid more extensive treatments later on.
- Wisdom teeth that are impacted or erupt at awkward angles can cause significant pain, discomfort, and swelling in the gums and jaw. Removing these problematic teeth relieves discomfort and prevents recurrent pain associated with inflammation or infections around partially erupted teeth.
- Impacted wisdom teeth can create pockets around the gums where food particles and bacteria accumulate, leading to infections such as pericoronitis (inflammation around the tooth). Removing wisdom teeth minimizes the risk of infections and associated complications like abscesses, promoting better oral health.
- Wisdom teeth that are difficult to clean due to location or partial eruption can contribute to plaque buildup and gum disease. Removing these teeth improves oral hygiene by eliminating inaccessible areas where bacteria can thrive, thus reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
- Impacted or poorly positioned wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, potentially causing damage such as crowding, tooth decay, or even fractures. Removing wisdom teeth helps preserve the integrity and health of neighboring teeth, avoiding the need for additional dental procedures to repair or replace damaged teeth.
Wisdom teeth extraction is a routine procedure designed to alleviate dental problems caused by the late eruption or misalignment of third molars. Visit Community Oral Facial Surgery at our multiple locations: 420 1st St N, Alabaster, AL 35007; 901 Leighton Ave #401, Anniston, AL 36207; 101 Trojan Drive, Carrollton, GA 30117; and 817A Riverbend Dr, Gadsden, AL 35901, to determine the best course of action and maintain your oral well-being. Schedule your appointment conveniently online or by calling (205) 208-0167, (256) 236-6090, (770) 832-8819, or (256) 547-5731.
