Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of molars to develop, typically emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood. While these teeth are a natural part of dental development, they often lead to a variety of issues due to their positioning in the jaw. At Navesink Dental, we understand the complexities associated with wisdom teeth and are committed to providing expert care tailored to your needs.
The Role of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth usually make their appearance between the ages of 17 and 25. In many cases, the jaw does not have enough space to accommodate these molars, which can lead to various dental complications. For some, this misalignment can result in pain, crowding of adjacent teeth, and even infection. Understanding the potential issues surrounding wisdom teeth is crucial in deciding whether removal is necessary.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
There are several common reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be extracted. One significant concern is the lack of space in the jaw. When wisdom teeth don’t have adequate room to emerge, they can become impacted. Impacted teeth are trapped beneath the gum line or in the jawbone, which can lead to pain and swelling. This condition can also compromise the health of neighboring teeth.
Another reason for removal is chronic discomfort. Many individuals experience persistent pain around their wisdom teeth, which may indicate infection or inflammation. Additionally, wisdom teeth can emerge at odd angles, creating further complications. When they do not come in straight, they can put pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to misalignment and bite issues.
Lastly, wisdom teeth are often difficult to clean properly due to their location in the back of the mouth. This can result in tooth decay or gum disease, necessitating their removal to protect overall oral health.
The Removal Process
At Navesink Dental, we aim to make the wisdom teeth removal process as comfortable and straightforward as possible. The journey begins with an initial consultation, where we take the time to discuss your specific situation and address any concerns you may have. During this appointment, we will conduct a thorough examination, often using a panoramic X-ray to visualize the position of your wisdom teeth and assess whether they are impacted.
On the day of the procedure, you will be given a sedative to help eliminate pain and anxiety. Depending on the complexity of your case, we may use local anesthesia, sedation anesthesia, or general anesthesia to ensure your comfort. The extraction itself involves carefully removing the wisdom teeth from their sockets. In cases where teeth are impacted, the procedure may require surgical intervention to safely access the tooth.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
After the extraction, it’s normal to experience some swelling and discomfort. Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions designed to promote healing and minimize pain. Rest is crucial, and we encourage you to take it easy for the remainder of the day. Ice packs can be applied to your cheeks to reduce swelling, and you should stick to soft foods and plenty of fluids in the days following the procedure.
Pain management is important, and we will prescribe medications as necessary to help you manage any discomfort. It’s also essential to maintain your oral hygiene routine, but you should do so gently around the extraction sites.
As you recover, monitor the extraction sites for any signs of complications, such as prolonged bleeding or infection. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our team is here to support you through the healing process and address any concerns that may arise.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about wisdom teeth, or would like to schedule a dental exam at our Red Bank dental office, contact Navesink Dental Care today. We will be happy to schedule an exam with our dentists and discuss your treatment options.
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New patients welcome. Call us at (732) 741-7733 or click button below to request an appointment.
