Worry-Free Wisdom Teeth Removal
Why is it common for most patients to have their wisdom teeth extracted? These 3rd molars are located in the back of the mouth and usually break through the gums in the late teens or early twenties. The problem is that wisdom teeth are often impacted, which means there isn’t enough room for them to grow in fully. This typically necessitates removal. We have a general dentist on staff that’s extensively trained in oral and maxillofacial surgery—the field that specializes in wisdom teeth issues. With his expertise, we’re able to provide worry-free wisdom teeth removal in Schaumburg, IL.
Since each patient is unique, we recommend a personal examination with our experienced team to see if your wisdom teeth need to come out. We use state-of-the-art digital imaging technology to evaluate the position of the teeth. These images help us determine if there’s enough space in the mouth and how the 3rd molars will be positioned if they grow in. Sometimes removal isn’t necessary because there’s enough room in the mouth to accommodate them. If it is required, we recommended that you have it done by your early twenties, as the jawbone hardens with age. Removal is the best way to avoid all complications.
Potential Complications of Wisdom Teeth
- Impacted: When the teeth are impacted in the jawbone, they remain stuck under the gumline and are unable to grow into position.
- Complications: Poorly positioned wisdom teeth increase the risk of complications such as cysts, gum disease, and cavities. Eventually, untreated disease leads to bone loss in the jaw.
- Nearby Teeth: If the wisdom teeth are putting pressure on nearby teeth, then it causes the teeth to shift, which affects the bite positioning. This misalignment can also damage other teeth.
3rd Molar Extraction and Aftercare
Wisdom teeth removal may be a more complex surgical procedure than a standard tooth extraction. We open up your gums to fully access and remove the problem teeth, rather than pulling them. Fortunately, unlike other teeth, wisdom teeth never need to be replaced after extraction. We simply reseal the area. Before we start the procedure, we make you comfortable using our anesthesia options. Our oral surgery-trained general dentist is licensed to administer IV sedation, which essentially allows you to sleep right through your extraction! You won’t feel anything or even remember anything afterward.
Following your procedure, we’ll provide a set of aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery. These include not drinking anything through a straw, avoiding certain foods, and not rinsing your mouth immediately. The biggest concern is a complication called dry socket. During healing your empty tooth sockets will form blood clots. If these clots don’t form or come loose, your nerves and jawbone will be exposed, creating a very painful situation. To avoid dry socket and other problems, follow the detailed instructions we send home with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do Most People Need Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth frequently get impacted, which prevents them from growing to their full potential. This may result from numerous issues, such as discomfort, infection, and harm to neighboring teeth. The best defense against future difficulties is frequently to remove these third molars before they become problematic.
How Do I Know If I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Each case is unique, so we suggest scheduling a personal assessment. Our team utilizes advanced digital imaging to evaluate the alignment of your wisdom molars. These images assist in determining if there’s adequate room for your wisdom teeth to develop properly. Because the jawbone gets denser with age, we will recommend extraction if there is a risk of impaction or problems. Ideally, this will happen in your early twenties.
What Are the Risks of Leaving Wisdom Teeth Untreated?
If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can cause several problems:
- Impaction: Teeth may remain stuck under the gumline and unable to emerge.
- Complications: Impacted teeth raise the risk of cavities, gum disease, and cysts, all of which can cause the loss of jawbone.
- Pressure on Nearby Teeth: Impacted teeth can push against adjacent teeth, causing misalignment and damage to other healthy teeth.
What Is the Wisdom Teeth Removal Process?
Removing wisdom teeth is typically more intricate than a standard extraction since these teeth are often still beneath the gum line. Our oral surgery-trained dentist makes a small incision in the gums to reach and extract the impacted teeth. Unlike other molars, wisdom teeth do not require replacement after removal. Once the procedure is completed, the area is sealed to encourage healing.
We prioritize patient comfort and provide anesthesia options, including IV sedation, so that you can rest throughout the process. You won’t feel or recall anything during the surgery, ensuring a stress-free experience.
What Is the Aftercare Process Like?
Following the treatment, we’ll give you detailed aftercare guidelines to help ensure a smooth recovery. These may include:
- Avoiding the use of straws.
- Steering clear of hard or crunchy foods.
- Avoid rinsing your mouth right after surgery.
One potential complication to be mindful of is a dry socket, which happens if the blood clot protecting your extraction site becomes dislodged. This can expose sensitive tissues and bone, leading to significant pain. By following our recommendations, you can reduce the risk of dry sockets and other issues.
