Learn More About Wisdom Teeth Removal
Removing wisdom teeth is one of the most common extraction procedures. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually come in around age 20. They are the last set of permanent teeth to come in and will fill out your matching set of 32.
Tooth extraction is the forced removal of the tooth from its socket in the bone. Dentists will recommend extraction if they cause pain, infection, or the mouth cannot accommodate them. If they are stuck in the jaw and cannot erupt, it can result in pain, swelling, and infection.
Causes for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth may not erupt normally, or become trapped in your jawbone or gums. They will require extraction if they come in at the wrong angle or press against your other teeth and threaten your bite or spacing. It’s possible your mouth or jaw won’t accommodate the space required for the third set of molars. In all of these cases, your dentist will recommend extraction.
Types of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
A simple extraction is one which is performed on a tooth that protrudes above the gum line. Your dentist will use tools to loosen and remove the tooth. Most simple extractions are performed using a local anesthetic via injection.
Surgical extraction is a complex procedure. It is performed on an impacted wisdom tooth. Your dentist will uncover the tooth and then use tools to loosen and remove it. Occasionally, the tooth will be removed in pieces. Debris will be cleaned away from the site before your dentist stitches it with dissolving sutures if necessary. Gauze is placed over the wound to control blood and encourage the formation of a blood clot. Due to the complexity of a surgical extraction, you will receive both a local and intravenous anesthetic.
Managing Pain
Having a tooth extracted can be traumatic. Even a simple extraction will cause mild discomfort. It is normal to feel pressure, but not pain during the procedure. The level of discomfort depends on the complexity of removing the tooth. Your dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatory steroids and painkillers as needed. If not, studies show that taking an over the counter anti-inflammatory, like ibuprofen, can help relieve pain and swelling as you recover.
