Wisdom Tooth Extractions

Wisdom teeth, the rear molars that typically emerge in one’s late teens or early 20s, can present various dental issues. While most adults have four wisdom teeth, some individuals may have none at all. When these teeth fail to fully erupt or become wedged against neighboring teeth, they can lead to gum infections, impaction, and tooth decay, prompting a dentist to recommend their removal.

Reasons for Removal

Incomplete eruption of wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria accumulate, causing pain, swelling, and jaw stiffness. In severe cases, pain may radiate down the jaw and neck. Similarly, wisdom teeth in the upper jaw may grow toward the cheek, causing ulcers and chewing difficulties. Due to challenges in cleaning, decay can also develop, necessitating removal. Sometimes, preemptive extraction is advised to prevent potential problems.

Consultation Process

During the initial consultation, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, review your medical history, and perform an OPG (Panoramic X-ray) to assess the condition and positioning of your wisdom teeth. Based on this evaluation, a personalized treatment plan will be devised, and the procedure, along with associated risks and complications, will be discussed. Consent for the procedure will be obtained after this discussion.

Wisdom teeth removal is typically postponed if infection is present, with antibiotics used to manage the infection until the surgical procedure can be safely performed. While the prospect of wisdom teeth removal may not be appealing, advancements in surgical and anesthetic techniques have made the procedure more tolerable than in the past.

Shield your teeth from infection with Opal Dental.