What to Expect from Surgical Removal of Your Wisdom Teeth
Your wisdom teeth, also known as your third molars, generally develop between the ages of 12 and 18. While properly aligned wisdom teeth do not need to be removed, most people do not have enough space in their jaw to allow the teeth to erupt appropriately. When your wisdom teeth are unable to erupt correctly, they grow sideways and become partially exposed while the remaining portion of the tooth is trapped beneath the gum and bone. Also known as an impacted tooth, this can be an extremely painful condition that can push the rest of your teeth forward, crowding your teeth and ruining prior orthodontic work. If your wisdom teeth are misaligned, then consider this overview on what to expect from the surgical removal of your wisdom teeth.
When to Undergo Surgery
The ideal age to remove wisdom teeth varies between 12 and 18 years old. Many maxillofacial surgeons suggest having your wisdom teeth removed before the roots start to grow in, because once the roots have formed, the teeth extend deeper into the bone, making it more difficult for them to be removed. Your surgeon will usually take x-rays between ages 12 and 14 to see if it is the best time to remove your wisdom teeth. However, some individuals may not require surgical extraction until their early 20s.
Procedure
After administering general anesthesia, your surgeon will use a local anesthetic to numb the areas involved in the surgery. Your surgeon will then make a small incision over each tooth in order to retract the tissue and expose and remove the impacted tooth. The incisions are treated with an anti-inflammatory medication and sealed with sutures that dissolve naturally over time. Your doctor will provide you with guidelines regarding aftercare and dietary instructions, and most patients find that they can resume their daily schedules the next day.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. McBride provides the dental surgery, facial plastic surgery, and face lifts to exceed your expectations. He also provides neck lifts and rhinoplasty (nose job) services. Call or email us today for more information.
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