Wisdom Teeth

If you have painful impacted wisdom teeth or a small mouth that's too crowded, see expert general and cosmetic dentist Aury Arroyo-Lourenco, DDS, and the team at My Tooth Place in Westminster, California. They offer minor surgery to make more space in your mouth and reduce the risk of dental complications by removing wisdom teeth. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today. 

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are four permanent adult teeth located in the very back of your mouth, on the top and bottom. They’re also called third molars. 

When wisdom teeth erupt, often between ages 17 and 25, they can make your total tooth count 32. Yet, the average mouth typically accommodates only 28 teeth. That’s why it’s common to have the four back wisdom teeth removed by a dentist or oral surgeon. 

Which complications can wisdom teeth cause?

When not extracted, wisdom teeth can lead to overcrowding. They sometimes grow sideways, grow under other teeth, push against nearby teeth, or become painful. While some mouths can accommodate wisdom teeth without any complications, many people end up having their third molars removed. 

What are the signs I might need my wisdom teeth removed?

Signs you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed include:

• Trapped food behind wisdom teeth
• Infection
• Pain
• Tooth decay in a wisdom tooth
• Cyst around a wisdom tooth
• Damage to nearby teeth

Your provider can determine if you’re a candidate for wisdom tooth removal by discussing your oral health history and symptoms, examining your teeth and gums, and taking dental X-rays. 

What happens during wisdom teeth removal?

You’ll often receive local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, along with sedation to help you relax or fall asleep.

Your provider cuts into your gum tissue to expose the wisdom teeth and bone. They remove any bone blocking access to your wisdom tooth roots. They may divide the teeth into sections (pieces) to make them easier to remove.

Then, they remove the wisdom teeth, clean the site, remove any debris, and stitch the wound closed when necessary. They use gauze to stop any bleeding and allow blood clots to form.

What can I expect after wisdom teeth removal?

After a period of recovery, you receive your post-surgery instructions. These include having someone drive you home, getting plenty of sleep, and taking medications as directed. You can use an ice pack to ease any swelling. Drink a lot of water, but avoid drinking through a straw. Don’t participate in intense physical activity until given the okay by your provider.

Begin with a soft-food diet and progress to other foods as your mouth begins to heal. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water as directed and contact My Tooth Place anytime you have concerns or questions throughout your recovery.

Schedule an evaluation at My Tooth Place by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.