Houston Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Houston, TX

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure that many people undergo at some point in their lives. These third molars, located at the back of the mouth, usually emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. While some individuals experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may face complications that necessitate their removal.

Wisdom teeth extraction is available at Dental Bright in Houston and the surrounding area. Most patients who need wisdom teeth extraction are in the stages of young adulthood.

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What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth. Most individuals have four wisdom teeth, one in each quadrant of the mouth. These teeth typically start to come in between the ages of 17 and 25.

The Importance of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

While not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, extraction becomes necessary for various reasons. The human jaw has evolved over time, and modern diets often do not require the chewing power that our ancestors needed. As a result, our jaws have become smaller, and there is often insufficient space for the wisdom teeth to erupt properly.

Signs That You Need Wisdom Teeth Extraction

  1. Pain and Discomfort: If you experience persistent pain and discomfort at the back of your mouth, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are causing issues.
  2. Swelling and Redness: Inflammation and redness in the gum tissue around the back molars may indicate an infection or impacted wisdom teeth.
  3. Jaw Stiffness: Difficulty in opening and closing your mouth may be due to the presence of impacted wisdom teeth.
  4. Headaches: Wisdom teeth-related problems can cause headaches, particularly in the temples or the back of the head.
  5. Unpleasant Taste or Bad Breath: An infection around the wisdom teeth can lead to a foul taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath.
  6. Cysts or Tumors: In rare cases, cysts or tumors may form around impacted wisdom teeth, requiring immediate extraction.

The Procedure: How Wisdom Teeth Extraction is Performed

Step 1: Consultation and Examination
The first step in the wisdom teeth extraction process is to consult a dentist or oral surgeon. They will perform a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if extraction is necessary.
Step 2: Preparing for the Procedure
Before the extraction, your dentist or surgeon will discuss the details of the procedure with you. They will provide instructions on preoperative care, which may include restrictions on eating or drinking before surgery.
Step 3: Local or General Anesthesia
Wisdom teeth extraction can be performed under local anesthesia, where only the extraction site is numbed, or general anesthesia, where you are unconscious during the procedure. The choice of anesthesia depends on the complexity of the extraction and the patient's comfort level.
Step 4: The Extraction Process
During the extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon will carefully remove the wisdom teeth from the sockets. In some cases, the teeth may need to be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal.
Step 5: Aftercare and Recovery
After the extraction, your dentist will provide postoperative care instructions. It is essential to follow these guidelines to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications.

Why Wisdom Teeth Extraction is Necessary for Some People

  • Genetics and Jaw Size

Genetics play a significant role in determining whether there is enough space in the jaw for wisdom teeth to emerge correctly. If the jaw is too small, the wisdom teeth may become impacted or misaligned.

  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not have enough room to grow properly, causing them to become trapped within the jawbone or gum tissue. This condition can lead to pain, infection, and other dental problems.

  • Overcrowding and Misalignment

If the existing teeth are already correctly aligned, the emergence of wisdom teeth can disrupt this alignment and lead to overcrowding, which may require orthodontic treatment.

Understanding the Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, wisdom teeth extraction carries some risks. It is essential to be aware of potential complications, although they are relatively rare.

  • Dry Socket

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. This condition can be painful and may delay the healing process.

  • Infection

Infections can occur after the extraction, leading to pain, swelling, and general discomfort. It is crucial to follow proper aftercare to minimize the risk of infection.

  • Nerve Damage

In rare cases, the nerves in the jawbone can be affected during the extraction, resulting in temporary or permanent numbness in the lips, tongue, or chin.

  • Sinus Problems

If the upper wisdom teeth are located close to the sinuses, their removal may cause sinus-related issues, such as sinusitis or a sinus communication.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction for Children and Teens

In some cases, children and teenagers may require wisdom teeth extraction. The Dental Bright will assess the need for extraction based on X-rays and the development of the teeth.

Wisdom Teeth Removal for Older Adults

Even in older adults, wisdom teeth extraction may be necessary if there are signs of infection, gum disease, or other dental issues related to the third molars.

Alternatives to Extraction

In some situations, alternatives to wisdom teeth extraction may be considered. These alternatives include monitoring the teeth, orthodontic treatment, or surgical techniques to aid in the eruption of the wisdom teeth.
Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure that aims to alleviate pain, prevent dental problems, and preserve oral health. If you are experiencing any signs of complications with your wisdom teeth, it is essential to consult with a Dental Bright in Houston to discuss the best course of action.
Remember, not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, and each case is unique. Proper evaluation and consultation with a dental professional are crucial to making an informed decision about wisdom teeth extraction.

Call us today at (713) 783-6060 to learn more and schedule an appointment.

FAQ

Q.Does wisdom teeth extraction hurt?

A. The procedure itself is performed under anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain during the extraction. However, some discomfort and soreness may be experienced during the recovery period.

Q.How long does the procedure take?

A. The duration of the extraction depends on the complexity of the case. Simple extractions may take around 30 minutes, while more complicated ones could take an hour or more.

Q.Can I eat before the extraction?

A. Your dentist will likely advise you not to eat or drink anything for a few hours before the procedure, especially if you are going to be under general anesthesia.

Q.What should I do if I experience dry socket?

A. If you suspect you have a dry socket, contact Dental Bright immediately. They can provide appropriate treatment and relieve the discomfort.

Q.Is it normal to have swelling after the extraction?

A. Yes, some swelling and mild discomfort are normal after the procedure. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce swelling.

Dental Terminology

Anesthesia
Anesthesia is a substance that medical professionals administer in various forms (gas, injection or pill) that helps patients not feel pain or sensations during surgical operations.
Asymptomatic Wisdom Teeth
Asymptomatic wisdom teeth are wisdom teeth that show no symptoms of irritation, inflammation or overcrowding the mouth that deem extraction.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person's teeth, gums and/or bite.
Cysts - Fluid Filled Sacs
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can also contain gas or puss and can occur anywhere on the body, even in or around the mouth/teeth.
Dental Checkup
A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.
Dental Prophylaxis
A dental prophylaxis is a professional and detailed cleaning that involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.
Dentist
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.
Dry Socket
A dry socket can occur after pulling a tooth out and seeing white bone in said socket. Other symptoms of dry socket include bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Oral Surgery
Oral surgery is a type of surgery that focuses on the mouth, jaw, gums or teeth. Oral surgery can repair, enhance or correct multiple issues in the mouth.
Pericoronitis
Pericoronitis refers to the inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the crown of a partially-erupted tooth.
Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is the dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health in order to prevent the spread of plaque, the formation of tartar and infections in the mouth.
Third Molars
The third molars are also known as the wisdom teeth and typically require removal in order to prevent pain and other issues in the mouth.
Vacuum Formed Mouthguard
A vacuum formed mouthguard involves customizing the mouthguard to match a mold of the individual patient's teeth for a perfect fit.
Wisdom Teeth Impaction
Wisdom teeth impaction occurs when the wisdom teeth are under the gums enough that an individual cannot reach them with a toothbrush.

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