Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries in the world. It is almost a rite of passage, with most people having their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their late teens or early 20s. This is a quick, safe procedure that can potentially prevent much more serious dental complications down the road.
At Ohio Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, we have a proven track record performing wisdom teeth removal, always prioritizing patient comfort, safety, and outcomes.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
The wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the final teeth to emerge. While most people get their wisdom teeth between ages 17 and 21, it is possible to get them as early as 11. The problem is that the jaw is typically too small to accommodate these teeth, which means that they can cause problems such as crowding or misalignment of other teeth. The wisdom teeth may also remain impacted, meaning they do not fully erupt through the gums.
Because of the high likelihood of oral health complications, wisdom teeth are usually removed preemptively.
Why Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
By having your wisdom teeth removed as early as possible, you can potentially avoid a lot of serious complications down the road. These complications can include:
Discomfort and Sensitivity Around the Impacted Teeth
When the wisdom teeth remain impacted, meaning they emerge only partially or they do not erupt, it can lead to tenderness and chronic pain.
Infection In and Around the Gums
One of the big problems with impacted teeth is that they are notoriously hard to keep clean. As such, impacted wisdom teeth significantly increase your risk of infection and periodontal disease.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth
When there is insufficient space for your wisdom teeth to erupt, they may push your healthy, adjacent teeth aside, damaging them or causing crowding, spacing, and misalignment issues.
Cysts Around the Jawbone
When left unaddressed, the wisdom teeth can also cause the formation of painful cysts around the jawbone, another issue that can be avoided by having your wisdom teeth removed as soon as you can.
Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, you will sit down with your surgeon to learn more about wisdom teeth, why they must be removed, and how the process works. This will also be an opportunity to discuss details of the treatment plan, ask any questions, and go over anesthesia options.
Additionally, the surgeon will conduct a physical examination and a review of medical images, confirming your eligibility for a safe and successful procedure.
Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you will arrive at our practice and receive a warm welcome from the clinical care team. You will then be led back to the treatment area, where we will help you feel comfortable and review any last-minute questions you might have. We will begin the administration of anesthesia, usually IV sedation, to make your experience as comfortable as it can be.
Once you are fully asleep, the surgeon will carefully remove the wisdom teeth, then stitch up the incision sites. The procedure typically takes just a few minutes, and once it has been completed, you will wake up and be discharged with a full set of written aftercare instructions. Note that, due to the effects of anesthesia, you will need someone to give you a ride back home.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following your wisdom teeth removal, you must allow your body some time for rest and healing. You can anticipate some physical discomfort for three or four days, though pain medications can significantly reduce this discomfort. Some swelling and bleeding can also be expected, along with potential bruising at the corners of your mouth.
After removing your wisdom teeth, you will need to adhere to a diet of liquids and soft foods for a few days, avoiding anything hot or spicy. You will be able to transition back to your regular diet as you feel able, which usually happens in under a week.
If at any point you have questions or concerns about your recovery, our team is here for you. Contact Ohio Dental Implants and Oral Surgery at any point following your wisdom teeth removal.
You’re in Good Hands with Our Surgeons
Wisdom teeth removal is a very ordinary, predictable, and safe procedure that can spare you from lots of discomfort and complications later in life. Ohio Dental Implants & Oral Surgery is passionate about providing easy and uncomplicated wisdom teeth procedures. To set up a consultation, call our practice at (440) 871-2201.
