Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually erupt during adolescence or early adulthood in the very back of the mouth. While wisdom teeth are believed to have served a purpose before, we generally don’t need this last set of teeth for any functional purpose now. In fact, wisdom teeth often grow in at an angle, causing serious issues that can affect your oral health.
To avoid impacted wisdom teeth, overcrowding, gum disease, and other complications, many dentists recommend extracting the teeth before they cause problems. Here is what to expect with wisdom teeth removal.
Does Everyone Need Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
No, not every person will need to remove their wisdom teeth. Dentists typically suggest wisdom teeth extraction if they are causing issues or are likely to create problems if allowed to fully erupt. In many cases, wisdom teeth grow in the correct position and do not present any risks to a person’s dental health.
However, it’s common that people do not have enough room in their mouths for the wisdom teeth to grow straight or to fully break through the gums. When this happens, it’s usually beneficial to remove the teeth.
When Should You Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?
It’s a good idea to have your wisdom teeth removed when they are causing pain, swelling, tooth decay, or other concerns. Your dentist will conduct a thorough exam to assess your situation and determine if they should remove them. You may want to consider extraction if:
- You are experiencing worsening discomfort as the wisdom teeth grow
- The wisdom teeth are causing damage to your jaw or neighboring teeth
- There is not enough room for the wisdom teeth to fully push through the gums
- You develop cysts, a tooth or gum infection, or other dental condition
- The wisdom teeth are pushing against other teeth, which can cause dental misalignments
Wisdom teeth extraction is less invasive when the teeth are still developing. During this time, the wisdom teeth are smaller and less dense, and the roots are not fully formed, making it easier to remove them. Recovery time is usually quicker as well. Waiting to remove wisdom teeth until you’re an older adult can be a much more extensive procedure.
When Is Sedation Required For Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Some type of sedation is recommended for wisdom tooth removal to ensure you do not feel pain or discomfort during the procedure. When dentists or oral surgeons perform a wisdom tooth extraction, they will choose a level of sedation that is appropriate for your needs.
For simple extractions done by a general dentist, an injection of local anesthesia will completely numb the area, allowing the dentist to remove the wisdom tooth without the patient feeling pain. With this option, you are conscious during the extraction. Your dentist may also use nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax and feel comfortable while still being awake.
General anesthesia may be the better choice for more complex wisdom tooth extractions and removal of all four wisdom teeth. With this level of sedation, you are fully asleep during the procedure and do not remember the extraction. Many patients prefer this option rather than being conscious while oral surgery is performed on them.
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Can You Request Non-Sedation Wisdom Teeth Removal?
While sedation is the standard for wisdom teeth extractions, dentists understand there are special circumstances that make sedation risky for patients. Some people have medical conditions or allergies that cause adverse effects while under sedation. Others take medications that create complications when mixed with anesthetics.
If you’re concerned about being under sedation during a wisdom tooth extraction, talk to your dentist about other options to reduce discomfort. The dentist can work with you and your doctor to find an alternative and walk you through the best pain management approach. You may find that one of the sedation methods is agreeable.
Do Impacted Teeth Affect The Removal Process?
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when third molars only partially erupt or become trapped in the jawbone or underneath the gums. Impacted teeth are common, with about nine out of 10 people having at least one impacted wisdom tooth.
Because these teeth are hidden in the gums and jaw, they can be more difficult to remove. An oral surgeon will need to create an incision to reach the impacted wisdom tooth and may need to remove it in multiple pieces. When the impacted tooth damages the jaw bone, the surgeon may remove some of the surrounding bone as well.
While the removal process for impacted wisdom teeth can be more complex than simple extractions, sedation options provided by your dentist mean these procedures are not necessarily more painful.
What Are Common Side Effects Of Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Although wisdom teeth extractions are a common procedure, there are some risks and side effects that come with oral surgery. Possible complications include:
- Dry socket: A dry socket is a painful condition that happens when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged or displaced during the healing process
- Other blood clotting issues: Excessive bleeding can occur if a patient has blood clotting issues or conditions that make it difficult to control bleeding
- Pain and swelling: Some patients may experience persistent pain and swelling that make their normal routines challenging until they subside
- Restricted jaw movement: Because some wisdom tooth removals involve the jawbone and jaw muscles, the area can become stiff after the extraction
- Sinus issues: If the wisdom tooth is near the sinus cavity, there may be some sinus complications after a wisdom tooth extraction
Is Wisdom Teeth Removal A Dental Emergency?
Wisdom teeth removal may be considered a dental emergency if impacted teeth are causing severe pain or a serious infection that puts the patient’s health at risk. Under these circumstances, your dentist will prioritize your treatment and remove the problematic wisdom teeth as soon as possible.
To avoid urgent wisdom teeth removal, listening to your body and seeing your dentist as soon as you experience symptoms is crucial. The longer you wait, the more complex the extraction may be. Contact our experienced dental professionals in Las Vegas or Reno to get ahead of major complications.
Wisdom Teeth Removal At Absolute Dental
Absolute Dental provides quality dental care and affordable treatments, including Las Vegas wisdom teeth extractions and Reno wisdom teeth extractions. Our skilled team works quickly and effectively to treat wisdom teeth issues and get your oral health back on track. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment at one of our Nevada dental offices!
Sources:
Ettinger, K. (2023). Wisdom teeth removal: When is it necessary?
Impacted Wisdom Teeth. (2022).
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth? (2019).
Wisdom Teeth. (2023).
Wisdom teeth: Learn More — Should you have your wisdom teeth removed? (2023).