Why Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted?
Wisdom teeth often become impacted when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to fully emerge. As a result, these teeth can become trapped under the gum tissue or grow at awkward angles, pushing against neighboring teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth are a common issue that can lead to pain, swelling, and even infections. Many patients opt for wisdom teeth removal to prevent further complications.
Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or other dental issues, it may be time to consider removal. Here are some key signs that you might need your wisdom teeth extracted:
Severe Pain or Swelling
One of the most common signs of problematic wisdom teeth is severe pain or swelling in the back of your mouth. This can indicate that your wisdom teeth are impacted or growing in incorrectly, and removal may be necessary to alleviate discomfort.
Tooth Decay
Impacted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay. If you’re noticing decay around your wisdom teeth or adjacent molars, your dentist may recommend extraction to prevent further damage.
Infections & Cysts
Wisdom teeth that don’t fully emerge can trap bacteria under the gum tissue, leading to infections or even cysts. These infections can spread and cause significant oral health problems, which is why timely removal is often recommended.
Crowding & Damage to Nearby Teeth
When wisdom teeth push against neighboring teeth, they can cause crowding and misalignment. This can not only affect the appearance of your smile but also damage nearby teeth. Removing your wisdom teeth can help prevent further dental complications when there’s crowding.
Gum Disease
The difficulty of cleaning wisdom teeth can also lead to the buildup of bacteria, increasing your risk of developing gum disease. If you’re noticing signs of gum inflammation or infection around your wisdom teeth, extraction might be the best solution to protect your overall oral health.
What to Expect When Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted
If you’ve been advised to have your wisdom teeth removed, knowing what to expect can help make the process less stressful. Here’s an overview of what happens during wisdom tooth extraction:
Initial Evaluation
Your dentist or oral surgeon will begin by conducting a thorough evaluation, which may include X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. This allows your dentist to determine if extraction is necessary and how complex the procedure might be.
Treatment Plan & Scheduling Surgery
Once your wisdom teeth have been evaluated, a personalized treatment plan will be developed. Your dentist or maxillofacial surgeon will explain the extraction process and discuss the types of anesthesia that may be used, such as local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the extraction. During this time, we can also discuss insurance and financing options to ensure the procedure is accessible.
Anesthesia & Surgery Prep
Before the surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss your anesthesia options to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia is commonly used for less complex extractions, while general anesthesia may be recommended for more involved procedures or for patients who prefer to be fully sedated.
Wisdom Tooth Surgery
During the surgery, your oral surgeon will carefully remove your wisdom teeth. The procedure may involve making small incisions in the gum tissue to access and remove impacted teeth. Your dentist will ensure that the process is as comfortable as possible, with a focus on minimizing any discomfort.
Post-Surgery Care & Recovery
After your wisdom teeth are removed, your dentist will provide detailed instructions for post-surgery care. This typically includes managing swelling, pain, and proper oral hygiene to ensure a smooth recovery. Healing usually takes a few days to a week, and regular follow-up visits help monitor your progress.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Orlando, FL
If you’re experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth, our team at Hourglass Dental is here to help. We offer compassionate, expert care for patients in Central Florida and Orange County, providing you with a comfortable and seamless extraction process. Whether you need wisdom teeth removal or are interested in other services like Orlando porcelain veneers, Orlando dental implants, or Orlando clear aligners, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your wisdom teeth removal and other dental needs.