Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Whittier, CA

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars at the back of your mouth, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. While humans once needed these teeth for chewing tough foods, modern diets, and jaw sizes have reduced their functional purpose. In many people, wisdom teeth become problematic as they try to emerge in a mouth that doesn't have enough space for them. This can lead to pain, infection, or even damage to surrounding teeth.

Why Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

For many patients, wisdom teeth don't have enough space to fully emerge, or they grow at awkward angles. This can cause a variety of dental issues:

• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth may remain trapped beneath the gum line, unable to fully erupt. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
• Partial Eruption: When wisdom teeth are only partially erupted, they create an opening that can harbor bacteria, leading to gum infections, swelling, and even tooth decay.
• Disruption of Alignment: The pressure from erupting wisdom teeth can shift the alignment of your other teeth, potentially undoing the results of any orthodontic work you've done.
• Cysts or Tumors: In rare cases, cysts or tumors can form around impacted wisdom teeth, leading to more serious complications.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

The best time to remove wisdom teeth is typically in the late teenage years (ages 14-18) before they cause problems. However, wisdom teeth can be removed at any age, and early removal reduces the risk of complications. At this age, the roots are not fully formed, making the procedure less complex and recovery easier. Waiting too long can lead to increased difficulty and risk during extraction.

How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom tooth removal is usually performed in an outpatient setting and can be done under various types of anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the procedure:

• Local Anesthesia: Numb the area around the wisdom teeth while you remain awake.
• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Used to relax you and reduce anxiety during the procedure.
• General Anesthesia: A deeper form of sedation that will make you fully asleep during the procedure.

Before the extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will conduct a thorough examination, which may include x-rays, to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and evaluate any potential complications. This ensures that the removal is done at the optimal time for your oral health.

Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

After your wisdom teeth are removed, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs. It's important to follow aftercare instructions, such as:

• Resting: Avoid strenuous activities for a few days to allow the extraction site to heal.
• Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot, spicy, or hard that could irritate the healing area.
• Oral Care: Continue brushing and flossing gently, avoiding the extraction sites to keep them clean.

Most patients recover within a few days to a week, although it may take a few weeks for the extraction site to fully heal.

Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal

While wisdom teeth removal is a common and routine procedure, there are some risks involved, such as:

• Nerve Damage: In rare cases, damage to nerves in the lower jaw or lip can occur, causing numbness or tingling.
• Sinus Issues: For upper wisdom teeth, there may be a risk of sinus complications.

Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you prior to surgery and explain the best way to minimize them.

Why Removal is Important for Your Oral Health

Removing wisdom teeth before they cause problems can prevent more serious oral health issues in the future. Early removal is often recommended to maintain proper alignment and reduce the risk of infection, cysts, and other complications.

If you're concerned about your wisdom teeth or are experiencing pain, swelling, or discomfort, contact us to schedule an appointment. We can evaluate your oral health and determine the best course of action for your individual needs.