Wisdom teeth, also known as 3rd molars, are the last teeth to erupt usually around the age of 18 years. Since most people don't have enough room for their wisdom teeth, it is possible that one may not even by aware of the presence of his or her wisdom teeth because they are buried below the gums (impacted). Typically, a panoramic x-ray is needed to diagnose impacted wisdom teeth.
There are several different reasons why a dentist may recommend the removal of wisdom teeth.
- In partially erupted wisdom teeth, difficulty with brushing increases the potential for infection and the potential for the infection to spread to other teeth.
- If a fully impacted wisdom tooth is left unattended there is a chance that a cyst, tumor, or cancer can develop.
- Since the jaws of most individuals are not large enough to accommodate the wisdom teeth, crowding and shifting of the other teeth is highly likely if teeth are not removed.
It is highly recommended that wisdom teeth be extracted before age 30 to decrease complications and speed up recovery time.
Should you choose Dr. Ward to extract your wisdom teeth, you can anticipate the following:
A pre-surgical consultation where Dr. Ward will evaluate your x-rays, give you instructions regarding your surgery, write necessary prescriptions, and tell you what you can expect following the surgery. Usually at this appointment financial matters will be finalized and questions regarding payment and insurance will be answered. The fee for this appointment will include charges for the consultation and any necessary diagnostic x-rays.
On the day of surgery sedative, antibiotic, and analgesic mediations as prescribed should be taken prior to surgery to proved a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. It is also recommended that Nitrous Oxide be administered to provide additional comfort. During the procedure the tooth will be exposed and any overlying bone will be removed. If necessary, the tooth will be sectioned and extracted. Finally, the gum is repositioned and sutures are placed where they will remain for 5-7 days.
A post-operative examination will be performed the day after surgery to assess healing and treat any complications. An additional post-operative exam will be performed in 5-7 days to remove sutures.
Risks and Complications:
1. Dry Socket: Pain in the area where the tooth was extracted can occur following surgery if a blood clot does not form properly. Dry socket is treated with the placement of a medicated dressing and often responds immediately.
2. Numbness: Due to their close proximity to the wisdom teeth, it is possible that one or more nerves can be bruised or permanently damaged during surgery. Some symptoms include numbness to the tongue, lips, or, chin. This condition is usually temporary, but permanent numbness can occur.
3. Sinus complications: Upper wisdom teeth are very close to the sinus, and occasionally the roots penetrate the sinus cavity. In very rare cases, an opening into the sinus occurs during the removal of wisdom teeth causing bacteria from either the sinus of the oral cavity to delay healing.
4. Infection: Infection following oral surgery is uncommon, but should be taken seriously if it occurs. Typically, oral infections are prevented by antibiotic therapy before, during, and after surgery.
5. TMJ pain: Tempromandibular joint pain following oral surgery is also fairly uncommon. In the event that treatment is needed, a bite splint may be recommended.
