Wisdom Teeth Removal
Keeping all your teeth for a lifetime would be ideal. But that might not work out for most people. Maybe you will need a tooth extraction due to an injury. Or perhaps you will need wisdom teeth removal to avoid oral health complications. Either way, our oral surgeon provides safe and patient-centric procedures in Mission Viejo when a tooth (or teeth) simply needs to go.
Why Wisdom Teeth Need Extracting
our third set of molars, known as your wisdom teeth, grows in during your late teens and early twenties. Many people need wisdom teeth removal due to insufficient room in the mouth for proper growth.
There are various reasons why a person needs tooth extraction of their wisdom teeth. Common reasons for wisdom teeth removal include:
- Impaction of the teeth can cause severe pain if the teeth become trapped in the gum or jawbone.
- Infection – when the wisdom teeth get trapped in the gums, this can cause pain and swelling.
- Growing out at a wrong angle – many times, the tooth can grow at weird angles, pressing up against other teeth
- Not having enough room in the jaw
- Developing cavities due to the inability to brush and floss the third molars
Why Would I Need a Tooth Extraction?
Wisdom teeth removal aside, normal tooth extractions can also be necessary in select situations. Ideally, we will be able to save or restore a tooth before extraction is needed. Tooth extraction is reserved for last-resort cases. Patients may need a tooth extraction when:
- A tooth infection cannot be treated by a root canal.
- Trauma or breaks have severely damaged the tooth.
- Decay has worn away a tooth beyond repair.
- You want full dentures but have one or two remaining teeth.
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>> What Should I Expect?
We know that patients will fear seeing a dentist, especially for a tooth extraction or wisdom teeth removal. Therefore, our team will ensure you have a comfortable, pain-free experience with your procedure. A pain-relieving extraction entails the following.
- Administering local anesthesia to the treatment area
- Making a gum tissue incision
- Removal of any bone that blocks wisdom tooth access
- The actual removal of the wisdom tooth
- Thorough cleaning of the extraction site
- Stitching of the wound to promote healing
- Placing a gauze to stop any bleeding and to encourage a blood clot
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What To Expect After A Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Post-treatment, it’s common to feel some minor bleeding and pain. Our office emphasizes patients use common sense after the procedure. If you work out regularly, stop if you experience lightheadedness. Everyone’s treatment responses will vary from light to severe. To be safe, it’s best to rest a few days post-treatment.
Expect to see swelling after tooth extraction surgery. The swelling and discomfort will subside three to five days later. If not, please get in touch with the dentist for a follow-up.
There are a few therapies you can use to help with the expected discomfort at home.
- applying ice to the swollen area of the cheeks
- placing a heat compress a couple of days after treatment if having difficulty opening the jaw
- taking any pain medication prescribed by the dentist
- take any antibiotics if prescribed
- avoid hard foods and stick to soft foods such as soups and jello
- avoid chewing near the surgical sites
Are There Any Potential Complications With A Tooth Extraction?
Extracting wisdom teeth is still a significant medical procedure, so post-op care is essential. Follow the therapies above to cut any potential complications. Unfortunately, no medical procedure can guarantee no side effects. Albeit slight possibility, possible complications include:
- infections – if one develops after treatment, it can be treated with antibiotics
- A dry socket is a common complication from dislodging the blood clot. A dry socket can cause ear aching that shoots down the chin. Smokers and birth control users are more susceptible to dry sockets.
- Sensory nerve damage – wisdom teeth in the lower jawbone have nerves that run close to the roots. During tooth extraction, the nerve can become irritated or damaged. This damage can give rise to a lower lip tingle that will gradually resolve on its own.
- Sinus problems – the upper wisdom tooth is near the sinus cavities. Removing the teeth can leave an opening to the sinus. The space will close on its own in a few days. It’s recommended not to blow your nose during recovery.
How Long Does It Take?
Simple tooth extraction can take a matter of minutes and usually requires only local numbing. Many patients are surprised at how quick the process is. You can even drive home from the procedure.
Complex tooth extraction and wisdom teeth removal can take a little longer. Local numbing may prove sufficient, but some patients prefer sedation for a lower-stress experience. Depending on your situation, it can take between 30 and 60 minutes.
Schedule Your Appointment
After an exam and X-ray, our team can help diagnose if tooth extraction or wisdom teeth removal is the best course of action. If it is, Mission Viejo Dental Specialists will ensure a safe and comfortable procedure. We understand the gravity of these dental emergencies. So call us if you’re experiencing symptoms from a wisdom tooth. Our Mission Viejo dental office offers same-day emergency appointments for tooth extraction (or tooth restoration). We look forward to helping you soon.