Wisdom teeth are usually the last teeth to grow in, and they can cause problems with the development of your mouth, including misalignment. Roxana Salem, MD and the expert team at Salem Dentistry in Long Beach, California, provide you with the best quality care for removing wisdom teeth. Call the office or schedule an appointment online for experienced, comprehensive wisdom teeth care.
WHAT ARE WISDOM TEETH?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come into development. They usually develop in your late teens or early twenties. Sometimes there is no need for removal, but usually, they cause misalignment in the mouth by pushing the other teeth out of the way. Because of the way wisdom teeth erupt, they must usually be removed by a dentist.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN TO HAVE MY WISDOM TEETH REMOVED?
Your dentist will tell you when you’ll need to have them removed. It can be seen in X-rays taken throughout your dental history. It’s easier to remove the wisdom teeth if the patient is young, when the roots of the teeth aren’t as strong. It can be a longer, more painful recovery time for older patients.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL?
The team at Salem Dentistry will give you a sedative so that you are asleep during the extraction. You will need someone to drive you home, so it’s important to plan ahead of the procedure.
Local anesthetic is applied to the areas and surrounding areas of where the teeth will be pulled. The removal process depends on the patient and how far along the wisdom teeth are developing.
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY PROCESS LIKE AFTER WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL?
You may feel groggy after the procedure from the sedative. The recovery process also includes:
- Applying gauze to the bleeding areas of your mouth
- Avoiding drinking through a straw or smoking cigarettes
- Avoiding hot foods and drinks
- Maintaining a liquid-based diet
- Taking prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
Follow the instructions given by your surgeon, who can direct you in how to avoid infections.
CAN THERE BE COMPLICATIONS FROM WISDOM TOOTH REMOVAL?
There are a couple of possible complications that can occur from the surgery:
- Dry sockets: This is a somewhat common complication that can occur when a blood clot has failed for form over the extracted tooth. It can be treated with medication placed directly into the dry socket.
- Paresthesia: This is a less common complication that causes nerves to be bruised or damaged and causes numbness that can be permanent.
These complications aren’t common and usually have treatments. Dr. Salem can help discuss possible options during your visit.
Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about wisdom teeth.