In modern society, it is almost a rite of passage to have a wisdom tooth extraction as a young adult. Wisdom teeth, the final, permanent molars located in the very back of the mouth, can actually cause problems for many patients if they are not removed. Fortunately, in most cases, the procedure is minimally invasive and does not require extensive healing time.
Wisdom teeth that are unable to erupt are referred to as “impacted.” Impacted teeth can lead to a host of dental problems, including infection, pain at the site of the impaction, bleeding gums, jaw pain, and difficulty opening the mouth. To avoid these potential issues, many dental professionals prefer to take out these molars even if they are not currently causing problems for the patient in question. Wisdom teeth can additionally crowd the other teeth and even cause shifting in a patient’s formerly perfect smile.
A dentist can explain to the patient the need for having wisdom teeth extracted. Perhaps the teeth are impacted, or maybe the dentist wants to prevent future problems in a patient with a small mouth by removing the wisdom teeth while the patient is still an adolescent, before the bones harden, which would make the procedure more difficult for a patient as an older adult.
The dental professional begins by going over the plan for extraction. For most patients, this procedure is no different than having any other tooth pulled. The exception is that these large molars sit in the very back of the mouth, which requires the patient to sit in an uncomfortable position for a while.
For wisdom teeth that have already erupted from the gums, the dental professional simply rocks the teeth from side to side and pulls gently with specialized equipment. This is similar to removing any other tooth. The patient may feel some pressure when the tooth is being removed. If the teeth have not yet erupted, the dentist may make a small slit in the gum in order to access the tooth underneath the gum.
Patients will receive instructions to avoid several activities after the removal, such as swishing with liquids, smoking, and drinking hot beverages. Every patient’s plan of care is slightly different due to unique factors in their cases. For instance, if a patient received stitches after having an incision to extract an impacted tooth, caution may be needed in eating and drinking specific foods for a longer period of time.
For most healthy patients, wisdom tooth extraction is a common, minimally invasive procedure that results in few complications and prevents future dental problems. If you still have wisdom teeth as an adult, it is not too late to investigate whether extraction would be beneficial. Schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team.
Request an appointment here: https://www.greatsmilesofhicksville.com or call Great Smiles of Hicksville at (516) 806-5067 for an appointment in our Hicksville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Hicksville, NY.
Cosmetic dental services are transformative solutions that enhance teeth and gums' appearance and sometimes function, providing patients with a more radiant smile. These services focus on aesthetics and oral health, from correcting minor imperfections to achieving a complete smile makeover. Advancements in dental technology have made these procedures more accessible, effective, and even customizable, catering…
A gummy smile, or excessive gingival display (EGD), is when a disproportionately large area of the gums is visible when smiling. Cosmetic dental services an address this concern, enhancing the balance between the gums and the teeth. Through services such as gum contouring, veneers, and Botox®, patients can enjoy a more proportionate and appealing smile.One…
Wondering about cosmetic dental services? Read on to learn more. Because such treatments are an investment, it is a good idea to extend the life of any cosmetic dental work you have done, such as teeth whitening or dental veneers.Typically, the dentist will provide their patients with detailed post-op instructions based on individual needs. Following…
Learning about cosmetic dental services can prepare you for your upcoming consultation. These procedures aim to enhance your smile and oral health. Each one can elevate your quality of life. Here are the benefits to consider about the cosmetic dental services you may need.Dental veneers and in-office teeth whitening are cosmetic dental services that can…