Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth extraction protects your oral health by addressing problems before they worsen. This procedure keeps your teeth aligned and functional, preventing unnecessary pain or damage. Skilled dental professionals precisely perform these extractions, using the latest techniques to make you comfortable and minimize recovery time. Every step is designed to protect your smile’s long-term health and radiance. When you proactively approach wisdom teeth removal, you avoid the worst outcomes and maintain optimal dental health.

Do not wait for complications to develop. Talk to The Hawthorne Dentist to learn if wisdom teeth removal can help keep your oral health in good shape. Acting now can give you that confident smile and peace of mind. Your teeth need to be treated with the care they deserve.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth

Your wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that erupt in your mouth, and they usually do so between the ages of 17 and 25. They are the third molars and often indicate the end of dental development. Some will never develop them, and others will have significant problems due to late arrival.

Wisdom teeth differ from earlier teeth and often struggle to fit into the available space. This overcrowding usually causes them to become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gums or partially erupt. This can cause discomfort, swelling, and infections. Their pressure on neighboring teeth can cause alignment problems or damage the dental structure around them.

Dental professionals closely monitor these late-developing molars in case of problems. In most cases, they suggest removal to avoid complications that might harm oral health. Removing wisdom teeth protects your teeth’s alignment and keeps that area from becoming infected or decaying.

Common Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth

Though wisdom teeth are a natural part of dental development, their late arrival and lack of space within the mouth can create many problems. If not taken care of properly, these problems can damage your oral health. Here are the most common complications associated with wisdom teeth:

• Impaction — Impacted wisdom teeth occur when they do not have enough room to emerge and get stuck beneath the gums or inside the jawbone. They can be very uncomfortable, swollen, and painful. This condition can become severe and could develop cysts or tumors. However, these fluid-filled sacs can grow and cause damage to surrounding bone and threaten the health of surrounding teeth, making early treatment critical.
• Overcrowding — If wisdom teeth try to grow in a crowded mouth, they can put pressure on other teeth. This pressure can cause misalignment, undo previous orthodontic work, or move your teeth. Overcrowding can lead to noticeable results in the appearance and functionality of your bite. Overcrowding can cause long-term dental problems if not treated.
• Gum inflammation — Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted can lead to persistent gum inflammation, called pericoronitis. If these teeth do not break through the gum line, bacteria can gather in the surrounding tissues, causing swelling, tenderness, and pain. This inflammation can make it hard to clean the area properly and increase the risk of infections or other complications. Untreated gum inflammation can eventually become chronic gum disease.
• Infection and decay — Wisdom teeth are a common cause of decay because, when only partially erupted, they are difficult to reach at the back of your mouth. They become covered with plaque, food particles, and bacteria, which plaque can quickly build up around. This becomes a breeding ground for tooth decay and infection. If not treated, they can spread to surrounding teeth.
• Cysts and tumors — Impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts in the jaw. Over time, these cysts can grow until they damage the jawbone and the surrounding teeth. In rare cases, these cysts become benign tumors that need to be surgically removed. Untreated cysts and tumors can also weaken the jaw and cause other oral health problems.

How to Identify Troubling Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Issues

Most of the time, problem wisdom teeth are relatively easy to spot. Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are located at the back of your mouth, and if they do not grow correctly or fail to emerge fully, they can disrupt oral health. Early identification of these symptoms will help you avoid more serious complications. Some common signs that your wisdom teeth are causing problems include:

• Persistent pain — Continuous discomfort in the back of your mouth or jaw points to a potential problem with your wisdom teeth. Impaction, infections, or overcrowding are usually the sources of this pain. The pain could intensify during chewing or speaking, disrupting your daily activities. This could then require a professional assessment.
• Swollen or inflamed gums — Wisdom teeth that have not erupted all the way but are partially doing so tend to cause the gums surrounding them to become swollen, red, and tender. The soreness that develops from this inflammation, called pericoronitis, can make eating or speaking uncomfortable. It can be infectious and cause other dental problems if not treated.
• Jaw stiffness or limited movement — Problematic wisdom teeth restrict jaw mobility. Impacted teeth may cause you to have difficulty opening your mouth fully or have stiffness in your jaw as they press against surrounding structures.
• Changes in bite — As wisdom teeth grow, they could push nearby teeth out of alignment or change the position of your bite. This misalignment can complicate chewing, and uneven pressure on your teeth can increase your risk of dental problems.
• Headaches or facial pain — Wisdom teeth can cause pain that radiates to the head, temples, or face if they become impacted or misaligned. The discomfort that usually occurs is similar to tension headaches, and it is due to pressure in the jaw or nerve irritation.
• Bad breath or foul taste — Wisdom teeth can create an environment for decay and infection because food particles and bacteria can get trapped around them. Persistent bad breath or a metallic taste in your mouth are signs of underlying issues that need dental attention.
• Swelling in the jaw or cheeks — Visible swelling in the jaw or cheeks is commonly a result of impacted teeth or infections. Sometimes, this swelling could indicate cysts or other abnormalities developing around the wisdom teeth.
• Frequent infections — If wisdom teeth cause recurrent infections, they are not erupting correctly. Gum infections spread and can result in systemic complications due to bacteria and debris trapped in hard-to-clean areas around these molars.
• Cysts or tumors — Impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that destroy nearby bones and teeth. Although rare, these cysts can become benign tumors that need to be surgically removed to avoid further damage.
• Crowded or shifted teeth — Wisdom teeth lack enough room to grow, which often results in overcrowding. These teeth can also push against neighboring molars, causing them to shift out of alignment. Not only does this crowding make it difficult to keep your smile, but it also makes it harder to keep it clean, resulting in an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Preparation and Extraction of a Wisdom Tooth

If you suspect you have a bad wisdom tooth, you should see your dentist or oral surgeon. They can diagnose the problem and devise the best treatment plan.

During the evaluation, your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth to check the alignment and condition of your wisdom teeth. To get a better view, he/she will take X-rays to see the teeth’ positioning and to spot possible problems like impaction, overcrowding, or cysts that are not visible during a physical exam.

Based on the findings, your dentist will discuss whether your teeth need to be extracted and explain the procedure in detail: what to expect, the type of anesthesia used, and any risks. You will also be told what to expect during the recovery phase.

Your dentist will also give you instructions about preparing for surgery and caring for yourself after surgery (post-operation). These could include dietary restrictions, prescribed medications, oral hygiene practices, and types of activities to avoid, like smoking or strenuous physical activity. If you follow these instructions carefully, you will recover quickly and reduce the risk of complications.

When you are ready, the wisdom teeth extraction process begins. Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you anesthesia to avoid pain. Depending on how complicated your extraction will be, you may be given local anesthesia to numb the area, sedation to help you relax, or general anesthesia to put you to sleep.

The oral surgeon will then access the wisdom teeth with anesthesia in place. They can make a small incision if necessary. In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into smaller pieces to be removed if it is impacted or embedded in bone.

After the teeth have been removed, the surgeon will clean the area and may place stitches to speed the healing process. These stitches could dissolve on their own or need to be removed a few days later. The extraction site will be monitored for complications or infection.

You will then be moved to a recovery area where the medical team will ensure you are stable as the meds wear off. You will receive postoperative instructions on managing discomfort, preventing infection, and speeding the recovery process.

Methods Dentists Use for Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Oral surgeons employ innovative techniques to make wisdom teeth extractions safer, more efficient, and more comfortable. However, these advanced methods go beyond providing a complication-free process because they shorten the time needed for healing and deliver much better outcomes. Some of the most effective techniques include:

• Laser-assisted wisdom tooth extraction — Laser technology is pivotal in modern dental surgeries, including wisdom tooth extractions. Lasers are used to precisely cut soft tissues, helping to coagulate and reduce bleeding, swelling, and pain during the procedure. They also help preserve surrounding tissues so patients recover faster.
• Minimally invasive surgery — The wisdom teeth removal techniques use small incisions to remove the wisdom teeth and cause less damage to the surrounding tissues. As a result, there will be less pain, faster healing, and a more comfortable recovery because the teeth are not fully impacted and can be removed with limited effect.
• Piezoelectric surgery — High-frequency ultrasound vibrations are used in piezoelectric surgery to cut bone with exceptional precision. This approach is less invasive than standard methods and minimizes damage to nerves or other sensitive areas. It is beneficial because it allows a surgeon to remove a wisdom tooth near critical structures, like bony jaws or nerves.
• Sedation options and anesthesia — Advanced sedation options, like IV or general anesthesia, are available so patients remain comfortable and pain-free during treatment. These methods are tailored to each patient’s needs and typically reduce anxiety. When combined with local anesthesia, they ensure a stress-free experience.
• Surgical guides and 3D imaging — Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) allows oral surgeons to obtain detailed 3D images of wisdom teeth. These images give a better view of the tooth’s positioning, bone, and soft tissues around it, helping dentists make precise planning and extraction decisions. CBCT supports using surgical guides to improve accuracy and reduce the risk of complications.
• Root-tip removal — These techniques are used when wisdom teeth have complex or broken roots. Dentists remove every fragment, reducing the risk of infection and eliminating the need for further surgery. The tooth is then extracted with special instruments, removing all that is left.
• Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) — Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a natural healing treatment from your blood rich in platelets to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. When applied to the extraction site, PRF speeds healing, reduces the risk of infection, and improves tissue recovery.

Post-operative Instructions You Will Receive After the Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with a list of postoperative instructions on how best to recover from your wisdom teeth extraction so that you can avoid complications. These instructions often include:

1. Pain Management

You will receive pain relief medications or instructions on how to relieve pain with over-the-counter painkillers. You should take your medication simultaneously every day and stick to the recommended dosage. Avoid swallowing your medicines on an empty stomach to prevent nausea.

2. Swelling and Bruising

It is common for swelling and bruising to occur. To reduce the swelling, apply ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes during the first 24 to 48 hours.

3. Diet Restrictions

In the first few days, eat soft foods that require less chewing. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that might irritate the extraction sites. Drink lots of water, but avoid using straws because they can dislodge the blood clot and slow healing.

4. Oral Hygiene

You can maintain oral hygiene but do not brush over the surgical sites for 24 hours. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area without disturbing healing.

5. Rest and Activity Limitations

Resting for the first few days will give your body time to heal. To avoid bleeding or further complications, it is best to avoid intense physical activity, exercise, or lifting heavy objects for at least the first 3 to 5 days.

6. Controlling Bleeding

Some bleeding is expected. Control your bleeding by gently biting on gauze pads and changing them as needed. Your dentist could advise using a damp tea bag if the bleeding continues because the tannins can help reduce bleeding.

7. Smoking and Alcohol

Do not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 72 hours after surgery. It worsens healing, increases the risk of complications, interferes with medications, or causes recovery problems.

8. Watch for Complications

Pay close attention to the possibility of infection at the extraction sites. Increased pain, fever, swelling, or even pus are signs that you should contact your dentist immediately.

The Potential Risks and Complications Associated With Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth extraction has some great benefits, but there are risks and complications. Understanding these risks is important to know what to do and to prepare for recovery. Some of the common complications include:

1. Infection

Infections can occur if bacteria enter the extraction site, and symptoms may include increased pain, swelling, fever, or pus. Promptly is necessary to prevent any further problems.

2. Dry Socket

A dry socket is caused by the blood clot dislodging or dissolving at the extraction site too early. This exposes the bones and nerves and causes intense pain that can delay healing. You can reduce the risk of a dry socket if you follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions.

3. Nerve Damage

In rare cases, the nerves around the wisdom teeth may be affected during removal, causing temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or pain in the lips, tongue, chin, or gums. This risk is higher when the teeth are impacted or are close to sensitive nerves.

4. Excessive Bleeding

Expect some bleeding after the procedure. This might be a problem if the bleeding is prolonged or heavy. Contact your dentist if the bleeding does not stop after a few hours.

5. Swelling and Bruising

After the procedure, swelling and bruising are common, especially around the cheeks and jaw. These symptoms may take a few days to subside. However, they can worsen but can be eased with ice and prescribed medications.

6. Sinus Issues

Extraction may lead to temporary sinus discomfort, pressure, or pain if your upper wisdom teeth are close to the sinuses. This is usually short-term but can sometimes result in more serious sinus complications.

7. Damage to Adjacent Teeth

In some cases, the surrounding teeth may be unintentionally damaged during extraction, especially where the wisdom teeth are close to the other teeth. It can still happen, even in complex extractions, but dentists take precautions to prevent it.

The Cost of Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Hawthorne

The cost of wisdom teeth extraction can vary widely based on factors like:

• The complexity of the procedure
• Whether the teeth could be impacted or not
• The anesthesia used
• Your insurance coverage

A simple extraction of a fully erupted tooth is usually between $75 and $250 per tooth. However, if the teeth are impacted and need to be surgically removed, the price can be as much as $200 to $600 per tooth. The cost of removing all four wisdom teeth without insurance can be between $300 and $1,000, and it can get higher depending on whether surgery or complications are involved.

The cost skyrockets if you choose general anesthesia or IV sedation. For example, if you have one tooth that needs to be removed, it will be between $600 and $1,100. If all four teeth need to be taken out under sedation, it will be $1,500 to $2,200. However high these costs may be, insurance coverage can help by paying 50% to 80% of the procedure, with annual maximum benefits generally around $1,000 to $1,500. However, it is best to consult your dentist. They will give you quotes based on your personal needs and insurance coverage.

Wisdom Teeth Alternative Treatments

Not all wisdom tooth issues require extraction. In most cases, the dentist will consider other treatments to address the problem without removing the teeth. Adjunctive procedures, like orthodontic treatments or dental adjustments, can treat misalignment, impaction, or discomfort, depending on the situation.

For example, if your wisdom teeth are emerging partially or not coming out straight, orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners can realign your teeth to match them, alleviate crowding, and prevent future problems. They allow the teeth to remain intact while providing a more efficient function and appearance overall.

Orthognathic surgery is not always an option for everyone, depending on the situation. There may be a complex case where the alignment of the teeth and jaw would pose a problem regarding oral health. This surgery realigns the jaw and teeth to improve their function and aesthetics. While it is a more involved procedure, the long-term benefits for the patient with severe misalignment who does not need extraction are worth the extra work.

Find a Dentist Near Me

Maintaining your overall dental health requires wisdom tooth extraction. Early intervention can help avoid implications and overcrowding that will cause problems over time. Modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure much more efficient, less painful, and quicker to recover.

You should be proactive about your oral health. Do not wait if you suspect problems with your wisdom teeth. Get a professional evaluation early to avoid pain, infection, or other serious dental issues later. Count on The Hawthorne Dentist to help you out. Call us at 310-775-2557 to schedule your next appointment.