Aug
The average mouth has space for approximately 28 teeth. Once wisdom teeth start to emerge, this number can jump to 32, making things a bit crowded. Sometimes wisdom teeth cause no problems; other times, they’re highly problematic, prompting your dentist to recommend a wisdom tooth extraction. This procedure can be done at All Smiles Dental for Fairmont, West Virginia patients. Here’s what you should know about wisdom tooth removal.
If your wisdom teeth aren’t painful or pose a risk to surrounding teeth, there’s no need for removal. If you’re experiencing the following symptoms, however, your dentist may recommend an extraction:
If your wisdom teeth become impacted due to having insufficient space to come in, it’s best to have them removed to protect nearby teeth. Overcrowding can damage your teeth, gums, bones, and nerves.
Once wisdom teeth have broken through the gum line, they can be extracted fairly easily with forceps, like any other molar extraction. Impacted wisdom tooth removal is another story. Our dentists will have to resort to surgery to remove impacted wisdom teeth. A small incision will be made in your gum, and any gum tissue or bone covering the teeth will be removed before extracting wisdom teeth. Sometimes the teeth have to be broken into pieces to be removed. This procedure is done under anesthesia to eliminate discomfort and pain during treatment.
After your extraction, your dentist will provide instructions for your recovery. We recommend you rest for a few days to recuperate from the surgery. You can use OTC medications to manage pain and an ice pack to minimize swelling. Your diet should consist of soft foods and liquids (without a straw) for 2-3 days following your treatment. Most people feel better after 2-3 days and return to their regular routine.
To schedule a consultation with our team of dentists for impacted wisdom tooth removal, contact All Smiles Dental if you live in Fairmont, WV, at 304-623-9188.
