Why Remove Wisdom
Teeth?
Extraction
of third molars can protect the overall health of the mouth. It is generally
recommended when the following conditions occur:
Wisdom
teeth only partially erupt. This leaves an opening for bacteria to enter around
the tooth and cause an infection. Pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, and general
illness can result.
Impacted
wisdom teeth may continue growing without enough room, damaging adjacent teeth.
A
fluid-filled sac (cyst) or tumor forms, destroying surrounding structures such
as bone or tooth roots.
When to Remove Wisdom
Teeth?
People
between the ages of 16 and 19 should have their wisdom teeth evaluated. If they
need to be removed, it should be considered before age 20 when generally fewer
complications occur. At a younger age, tooth roots are not fully developed, the
surrounding bone is softer, and there is less chance of damaging nearby nerves
or other structures. There is also less surgical risk and healing is generally
faster.
Extractions
of wisdom teeth may be performed by a general dentist. If your dentist
anticipates any special care will be needed, he or she may refer you to an oral
or maxillofacial surgeon. An oral or maxillofacial surgeon is a dentist who
specializes in surgery and the removal of wisdom teeth.
What to Expect?
Before surgery, your dentist will explain what to expect, have you
sign a consent form and give you personalized instructions to follow. Keep in
mind these general items in order to help your surgery go smoothly.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange to have someone be with
you after surgery. Extraction can be performed under local conscious sedation
or general anesthesia. Following surgery, you may experience some swelling and
mild discomfort, which is part of the normal healing process. Cold compresses
can help decrease the swelling and medication prescribed by your dentist can
help decrease the pain. You may be instructed to drink only clear liquids
following surgery and later progress to soft foods.
Some patients experience numbness or tingling following surgery.
Normal sensation usually returns in a short period of time. Occasionally, a dry
socket occurs when the blood clot breaks down earlier than normal. A dressing
placed in the socket protects it until the socket heals.
Talk with your dentist about any questions that you have. It is
especially important to let your dentist know, before surgery, of any illness
that you have and medications that you are taking. If your general dentist has
referred you to a specialist, they will both work together to provide you with
the best and most efficient care. Keeping your teeth healthy – to a wise old
age – is your dentist’s primary concern.
Above
article written by: DentalHealthOnline.net
Timothy A. Smith, DDS
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132
609-T East Main Street
Purcellville, VA 20132
