Wisdom Teeth Removal in Leander TX

Wisdom Teeth Removal

While not all patients will have to have their wisdom teeth removed, those who do will enjoy comfortable wisdom teeth extractions at Practice Name.

We are also happy to refer patients who are feeling moderately anxious about the wisdom tooth extraction procedure. We are fortunate to be in contact with excellent oral surgeons who will take extra steps to ensure that these patients have the best and most enjoyable experience.

Our smiles are always changing. That’s why at Practice Name, our top priority is to keep our patients’ teeth bright, functional and healthy at every stage of their lives.

Does everyone have wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth (also called third molars) usually erupt, or come in when patients are between 17 and 21 years of age. Of course, every patient is different; some may have between 0 and 4 third molars. Although it’s less likely, a few patients will have more than four wisdom teeth. But generally, most people have 4 wisdom teeth. In some cases, they might not even emerge in the oral cavity, but remain trapped inside the jawbone.

Video 04:37 | Having Third Molar Surgery by The American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons.

Do all wisdom teeth have to be extracted?

For many patients, their wisdom teeth will erupt without any major inconveniences. In these instances, wisdom teeth don’t need to be removed. However, quite often, there is simply not enough space in the jaw for these molars to emerge correctly. That’s why they can end up becoming impacted, or stuck in the jaw, unable to erupt. They can also erupt at an angle that makes it difficult for them to clean and maintain the area. In either case, dentists suggest extraction of the molars, as this helps to prevent subsequent and more significant problems like cavities, gum disease, and crooked teeth.

What is the extraction procedure of wisdom teeth?

It usually takes about one to two hours for the extraction of third molars. As well, patients are permitted to leave the clinic shortly after the procedure is completed. But this time can vary according to the complexity of the procedure; for example, impacted molars will require more time than well-positioned ones to remove.

Regardless of the degree of difficulty involved, the general procedure is the same. The dentist first numbs the area with a local anesthetic. In a simple extraction, he will remove the tooth immediately after the injection. In a complex or surgical extraction, the dentist will need to first make a small incision in the gum tissue for the purpose of accessing the tooth. Often, the dentist will cut the tooth into smaller pieces for the purpose of making the procedure more straightforward.

Once finished, the dentist needs to close the surgical site so that the healing process can begin. For the initial two or three days, the patient should expect their cheeks to swell. But as time goes on, the swelling and soreness will fade. Prior to leaving the office, the dentist will write a prescription for medications to help lessen discomfort.

Simple Tooth Extractions

Sometimes there are other teeth besides the third molars that need to be extracted. Below are the most common reasons why dentists choose to remove these other teeth:

Wherever possible, the dentist will always attempt to save the patient’s natural teeth. The only exception are wisdom teeth, as extracting them is considered to be a preventive measure. After removal of those teeth, the patient will be able to chew without any problems, and their smile will remain as healthy as before.

Why should patients have an infected tooth removed?

Teeth that have been severely affected by decay or trauma can also affect your well-being if they’re left in the gums. For example, decay can spread to neighboring teeth. Periodontal disease can spread to the jawbone. Teeth that have sustained traumatic damage, such as cracks or fractures are more vulnerable to the ingress of bacteria, which causes further problems down the line.

Following the removal of affected teeth, it’s always recommended that the resulting black gap be filled with either a dental bridge or an implant. During your visit at the dental office, Dr. Name will explain all of your options so that you can find the one most suitable for you and your oral health.