Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, usually emerging in the late teens or early twenties. While some people never face issues with their wisdom teeth, for many, these teeth can cause problems, making removal necessary.
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Misconception: Everyone Needs Their Wisdom Teeth Removed
Fact: Wisdom teeth removal is not universal. It’s necessary only when these teeth pose potential health risks or cause existing problems.
Misconception: Recovery from Wisdom Teeth Removal is Always Painful and Long
Fact: While some discomfort and swelling are normal, advancements in techniques and pain management have made recovery more comfortable and easier for many patients.
Misconception: Wisdom Teeth Removal Causes Facial Changes
Fact: Wisdom teeth removal does not cause any significant change in facial structure or appearance.
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that can prevent various oral health issues and alleviate discomfort. Understanding the process, post-care, and addressing common misconceptions can help patients approach this treatment with confidence and clarity.
Experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth? Don’t wait for complications to develop. Call to schedule a Free comprehensive evaluation at (801) 212-9061.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop. They typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. Often, they’re removed because they can cause problems like impaction (teeth that are trapped beneath the gum line), misalignment of other teeth, pain, or infection. In some cases, they can also lead to cysts or tumors.
Indications for wisdom teeth removal include pain, infection, cysts, tumors, damage to neighboring teeth, and gum disease. Sometimes wisdom teeth are removed as a preventive measure if they’re likely to cause problems in the future. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help our dentist determine if they need to be removed.
Wisdom teeth are typically removed in the late teens or early twenties, as the roots are not fully developed and the recovery tends to be quicker. However, they can be removed at any age if they cause problems.
The procedure involves making an incision in the gum to expose the tooth and bone, removing any bone blocking access to the tooth root, dividing the tooth into sections if it’s easier to remove in pieces, removing the tooth, cleaning the site of the removed tooth, and stitching the wound closed to promote healing.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the extraction. Post-surgery, there may be some discomfort and swelling, but this can be managed with pain relief medications prescribed by our dentist.
After the procedure, you may experience swelling, mild pain, and bruising for a few days. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, which may include taking medications, using a cold pack, eating soft foods, and avoiding strenuous activity for a short period.
Recovery typically takes a few days to a week. Most people can return to normal activities within a couple of days, but it can take up to two weeks for any soreness and swelling to subside completely.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including dry socket, infection, damage to nearby teeth, or nerve damage. However, these complications are relatively rare, especially when the procedure is performed by an experienced dental professional.
It depends on the type of anesthesia used. With local anesthesia, you’ll be awake but won’t feel pain. With sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll be asleep during the procedure.
Post-operative care includes resting, avoiding vigorous mouth rinsing or touching the wound area, eating soft foods, and gradually reintroducing solid foods. Good oral hygiene is important, but be gentle around the surgical sites.
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