Symptoms to Watch Out For
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of adult teeth to emerge, typically appearing behind the second molars in your late teens to mid-twenties. However, some people experience early or late eruptions, and others may not develop wisdom teeth at all. While wisdom teeth can sometimes come in without issue, there are several reasons why they might need to be removed.
- Crooked or misaligned growth: Wisdom teeth can grow at odd angles, pressing against neighbouring teeth.
- Overcrowding: If there isn’t enough space, the pressure can lead to pain and complications.
- Difficulty cleaning: Teeth in hard-to-reach areas can trap food or be challenging to clean, leading to decay.
- Impaction and infection: Impacted wisdom teeth are more prone to infection due to being partially or fully trapped under the gums.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
Wisdom teeth can be removed through a simple extraction by your dentist or may require a routine surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon. After an initial examination, your dentist will determine the best approach for your situation. You may have all four wisdom teeth removed at once or gradually across several appointments.
Examining Your Teeth
Before scheduling your extraction, we’ll thoroughly assess your teeth and jaw. X-rays will help us see how your wisdom teeth are growing and examine the root structure. This allows us to determine whether a simple extraction or surgery is needed, ensuring there are no surprises during the procedure.
The Removal Process
At your initial exam, we’ll provide detailed instructions on what to expect and how to prepare. Based on your preferences and your dentist’s recommendations, we’ll use local freezing, sedation, or anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Our team uses minimally invasive techniques to remove your wisdom teeth as gently as possible to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience and a quick recovery.
Aftercare
We recommend bringing a friend or family member to assist you after the procedure, drive you home, and stay with you while you recover. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including tips on what to do and what to avoid to ensure a speedy and comfortable recovery. If any concerns arise during your recovery, we’re just a call away and happy to help!
Cost of a Wisdom Tooth Removal in Oakdale
It’s difficult to provide an exact quote for wisdom tooth removal online or over the phone because the treatment plan is customized based on your individual needs. After an oral exam, your dentist can give you a clearer idea of the costs involved. However, to give you a general idea, here are the two broad categories of dental extractions and their associated factors:
Simple Tooth Extraction
A simple extraction is performed when the wisdom tooth has fully erupted (visible in the mouth) and there are no complications. This procedure is typically handled by a general dentist using local anesthesia. If your wisdom tooth can be removed quickly and easily, the cost will be lower.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
A surgical extraction is more complex and may be required if the wisdom tooth hasn’t fully erupted, is impacted, has complicated roots, or is causing issues with the adjacent second molar. This type of extraction requires specialized care and expertise, which results in a higher cost.
Keep in mind, no dental practice can offer an accurate quote over the phone, as every case is unique. A consultation with your dentist will allow them to evaluate your situation and provide treatment options tailored to your needs.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed. Extraction is only necessary if they become impacted, cause discomfort, or interfere with the alignment of your jaw and teeth.
Modern dentistry prioritizes your comfort. We use advanced tools and techniques to minimize discomfort, work efficiently, and reduce trauma to promote faster healing. You’ll also receive aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery with minimal discomfort.
About an hour after the procedure, you can remove the gauze sponges from your mouth and eat. Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours, and avoid hot foods and drinking through a straw to prevent complications.
At your appointment, we’ll provide personalized aftercare instructions. Generally, after a wisdom tooth extraction, you should:
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, using straws, or smoking for the first 24 hours.
- Refrain from touching the extraction site with your finger or tongue.
- Stay away from hot foods and drinks.
- Avoid taking aspirin, as it can interfere with blood clotting.
- Limit physical activity and exercise during recovery.
Plan to rest for three to four days after your wisdom teeth are removed to minimize the risk of complications. While full recovery typically takes around two weeks, discomfort should be minimal during this period.
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