Wisdom Teeth Removal 

Are your wisdom teeth causing you discomfort or anxiety? You’re not alone. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often bring about various dental issues as they emerge. Understanding the importance of wisdom teeth removal can alleviate concerns and promote optimal oral health. Let’s delve into why this dental procedure is crucial and how it can benefit you.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, often between the ages of 17 and 25. Positioned at the back of the mouth, these molars were once essential for our ancestors who consumed rougher, tougher diets. However, modern diets and changes in jaw structure have rendered wisdom teeth unnecessary for many individuals.

The Importance of Wisdom Teeth Removal:

1. Prevention of Dental Complications: Wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they don’t have enough space to emerge properly. This can lead to pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth and bone.

2. Alleviation of Discomfort: Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort, including jaw pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing. Removing these teeth can provide immediate relief.

3. Prevention of Misalignment: The emergence of wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to crowding or misalignment. Removing them can help preserve the alignment of your teeth and prevent the need for orthodontic treatment in the future.

4. Reduced Risk of Infection: Wisdom teeth are particularly susceptible to infection due to their location at the back of the mouth, where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate. Removing them reduces the risk of oral infections, such as gum disease and tooth decay.

5. Preservation of Oral Health: By addressing potential issues early through wisdom teeth removal, you can maintain overall oral health and prevent more extensive dental problems down the line.

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process:

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure performed by oral surgeons. The process typically involves:

• Initial Assessment: With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth,  Dr. Hackenberger, Dr. Kraemer, Dr. Sclafani, Dr. Lehal, Dr. LeRose, Dr. Coviak, Dr. Szandzik, and Dr. DeMerle  can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

  All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our doctors are trained, licensed, and highly experienced in providing various types of anesthesia for patients.

• Surgical Extraction: If removal is recommended, the procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, though sedation options are available for anxious patients. Our oral surgeons will carefully extract the wisdom teeth, ensuring minimal discomfort and swift recovery.

• Recovery and Follow-Up: Following the procedure, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and proper oral hygiene practices. We will provide post-operative instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

In essence, wisdom teeth removal is not merely a cosmetic procedure but a proactive measure to safeguard your oral health and well-being. By addressing potential issues early on, you can avoid unnecessary pain and complications while preserving the integrity of your smile. Don’t let wisdom teeth woes hold you back – consult with our oral surgeons today and embark on the path to optimal dental health.

   Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQ: 

Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars to fully erupt, a number of problems can happen. Impacted wisdom teeth should be removed before their root structure is fully developed. In some patients it is as early as 12 or 13, and in others it may not be until the early twenties. Problems tend to occur with increasing frequency after the age of 30. Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include:

Infection:

The most frequent clinical problem we see is pericoronitis, (a localized gum infection). Without enough room for total eruption, the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth can become irritated and infected, resulting in recurrent pain, swelling, and problems with chewing and/or swallowing.

Cyst Formation:

Non-infectious diseases may also arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid-filled “balloons” inside the jaw bone that develop as a result of impacted teeth and slowly expand destroying adjacent jaw bone and occasionally teeth. They can be very difficult to treat if your wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years. Although rare, tumors can be associated with the delayed removal of wisdom teeth.

Possible Crowding:

Impacted wisdom teeth may contribute to crowding of your teeth. This is most noticeable with the front teeth, primarily the lower front teeth and is most commonly seen after a patient has had braces. There are a number of factors that cause teeth to crowd after braces or in early adulthood. Retained, impacted wisdom teeth may be a contributing factor. Unless you have an active problem when you see the oral surgeon, the reason for removal is primarily to prevent long-term damage to your teeth, gums and jaw bone.

Damage to Adjacent Teeth:

If there is inadequate room to clean around the wisdom tooth, the tooth directly in front, the second molar, can be adversely affected resulting in gum disease, bone loss around the tooth, and/or decay.

What if I don’t have my wisdom teeth removed as a teenager or young adult?

As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense. When it is necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate. Treating these complications is often more difficult and less predictable than with a younger patient. Healing may be slower and the chance of infection can be increased. If your impacted wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years or early in your twenties and they are completely impacted in bone, it may be advisable to wait until a localized problem (such as cyst formation or localized gum disease and bone loss) develops. In general, you will heal faster, more predictably and have fewer complications if treated in your teens or early twenties.

What happens on the day wisdom teeth are removed?

Many individuals opt for sedation during wisdom teeth removal to minimize discomfort. During your consultation, you’ll receive information about anesthesia options tailored to your needs. Our skilled staff is trained to administer various types of anesthesia in a safe environment, equipped with modern monitoring equipment.

On the day of your procedure, you’ll take medications to manage post-operative pain and swelling. It’s important to have a parent or responsible adult accompany you and stay with you afterward. The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, with an overall visit time of about 90 minutes. Advanced medical techniques promote rapid healing and reduce discomfort, while stringent sterilization and infection control measures ensure safety.

Before surgery, it’s crucial to fast for at least 6 hours, excluding necessary medications with a sip of water. Eating or drinking beforehand increases the risk of complications. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in rescheduling. Pain medication may be prescribed during your consultation for convenience.

During the procedure, we prioritize your comfort. If sedated, an IV is usually placed in your left arm for efficient medication delivery. Local anesthesia ensures comfort during and after the procedure. Stitches, if required, are typically dissolvable and don’t need removal. Some swelling and discomfort are normal and usually subside within days.

After the local anesthesia wears off, you may need prescription pain medication. Non-narcotic anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen are recommended initially. Gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet as tolerated, starting with clear liquids. Avoid dairy products on the day of surgery to prevent nausea and vomiting, especially if taking antibiotics.

What does wisdom tooth removal cost and is it covered by insurance?

The fee for your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty involved in removing your teeth and which type of anesthesia is best for you. During your consultation appointment, the surgeon will need to review your x-rays, complete an examination and determine the best option for anesthesia, before an accurate estimate can be provided. Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. The oral surgeon’s office staff will help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.

What if I have questions before surgery?

At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call the office you had your procedure done at to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.