Wisdom Tooth Extractions Raleigh
Gently Removing Wisdom Teeth Before Problems Occur
Wisdom teeth might’ve been useful at one point in history, but these days, they tend to cause problems for many patients. Fortunately, they can easily and safely be removed before they begin to cause long-term dental issues, such as harm to other teeth or serious infections. To learn more about wisdom tooth extraction or to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, just give our Raleigh dental office a call.
Why Choose Lake Boone Dentistry Raleigh for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- Modern Office with Patient Comfort Amenities
- Compassionate, Experienced Dental Team
- Dental Insurance-Friendly Practice
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, sometimes referred to as the third molars, are the very last set of teeth that erupt in each corner at the back of the mouth, usually between the ages of 16 and 25. While our early ancestors relied heavily on wisdom teeth to chew all of the coarse, tough foods they ate, over time, we’ve evolved to not need these extra teeth. This results in many patients not having enough room in their mouths for the teeth, which can often result in them becoming impacted, meaning they don’t erupt correctly.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Not everyone ends up needing their wisdom teeth extracted; there are those lucky few who have room for them inside their mouths and experience no issues. But most people tend to need theirs removed before they can cause damage. A few of the most common reasons for wisdom tooth extraction include:
- Impaction (teeth lie hidden beneath the gumline)
- Infection that causes pain, swelling, or fever
- Continuous pressure toward the back of your mouth
- Bite misalignment
What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure
If we’ve recommended wisdom tooth extraction, you should know that it’s one of the most common and straightforward procedures performed. If the wisdom teeth have erupted above the gumline, after your mouth has been numbed, the teeth can be removed using special instruments that can safely wiggle them free from their sockets. If the teeth are impacted, or still stuck beneath the gums, a small surgical procedure can be performed to remove them teeth, usually in separate pieces to simplify things.
Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extraction
After the procedure is complete, you’ll need to take measures to protect your surgical sites and ensure that things begin healing properly. Some tips to keep in mind include:
- Use gauze to control any bleeding
- Take over-the-counter or prescribed medications as instructed to manage pain
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods, instead eating soft or liquid options
- Do not use a drinking straw, as the suction may disrupt healing
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products
- Avoid strenuous physical activity
- Call our office if you experience any severe pain or unusual symptoms
Wisdom Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
Most people are born with all four wisdom teeth, but some will only have one, two, three, or none. Research suggests that somewhere between 5% and 37% of the population have less than four wisdom teeth, and genetics can play a significant role in how many you have. However, it’s possible that you have wisdom teeth even if you can’t see them, so it’s always necessary to have the dental team at Lake Boone Dentistry investigate the matter by taking X-rays so we can determine the best course of action. If you have enough room for your wisdom teeth, it’s probably best for you to keep them, but removing wisdom teeth that crowd the mouth or fail to emerge properly can prevent a host of oral and overall health issues like dental misalignments, chronic pain, and nasty infections. Most people’s wisdom teeth begin to erupt from their gums in their late teens or early twenties, but some will receive them earlier or later than that.
What’s the Best Age to Get Wisdom Teeth Removed?
While wisdom teeth can be removed from adults of any age, it’s usually best to extract them in early adulthood. The recovery process after having wisdom teeth removed can be more intense for older adults whose oral tissues are more solidified, so the procedure is usually easier to perform for younger patients. Scheduling wisdom tooth extractions is also often simpler for people in their late teens and early twenties since it is usually less inconvenient to receive the procedure when school is not in session than it is to take time off work. If the team at Lake Boone Dentistry recommends removing your wisdom teeth, it’s usually best to do it sooner to prevent serious complications like infections, cysts, and dental damage.
How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Surgery Take?
You will most likely be sedated while having your wisdom teeth removed, so it will probably seem like no time passes at all when you receive the procedure. It usually takes about fifteen to twenty minutes to remove a wisdom tooth on average, so removing all four can take up to ninety minutes. However, the process may take longer depending on where the teeth are located, how they are angled, and whether they are impacted. The team at Lake Boone Dentistry will be happy to provide you with a proper estimate of how long your treatment will take when we see you at our office in Raleigh for your consultation.