Wisdom Tooth Extractions Dallas

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars, which develop at the back of the mouth when an individual is in their teens or early adulthood. Most people get four wisdom teeth, one in each quadrant of the mouth, though some individuals get more or fewer.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

It is sometimes possible to keep wisdom teeth if they are able to erupt fully and do not cause any damage to the rest of the smile. That said, an extraction may be the only option if wisdom teeth become fully or partially impacted, which can cause pain, crowded teeth, and dental infections. We can evaluate your wisdom teeth and check to see if they are likely to cause any problems in your mouth when left alone; if they are, we will take steps to have them removed as soon as possible.

What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

Before extracting wisdom teeth, we numb the mouth. We may also administer sedation. Once you are comfortable, we may use an elevator to lift each tooth out of its socket, grasp it with forceps, and then gently break the connective tissues holding it in place.

If the wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck beneath the gumline), removing them may require a more complex procedure. It might even be necessary to create incisions in your gums or break the teeth into pieces.

Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Most people are back to feeling normal within 1 – 2 weeks after their procedure. In the meantime, you may experience swelling, discomfort, and intermittent bleeding. You can reduce your discomfort and lower your risk of complications by taking some simple steps:

• Maintain good oral hygiene, but be very careful around your extraction sites.
• Do not touch the extraction sites with your tongue, fingers, or toothbrush.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy foods.
• Take any medications as directed by our team.
• Get enough rest.
• Do not smoke or drink through a straw.
• Call us if you have questions or concerns during your recovery period.