Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the back of your mouth. Typically, they are the last teeth to erupt and usually come in during your late teens or early twenties. Although some patients have no problems with their wisdom teeth, others may need to have them extracted. At Sikora Family Dentistry, our dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal for several reasons. Because they are large molars that often require specialized care, we refer patients to a local oral surgeon if wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal May Be Necessary
If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, healthy, and positioned correctly, you may not need to have them extracted. However, wisdom teeth removal may be necessary if:
- There is not enough room for them to grow properly
- They are coming in at an angle or horizontally
- They are only partially erupted
- They are impacted (stuck in the gums and unable to erupt)
If wisdom teeth aren’t fully erupted or are impacted, infection can set in, which can cause serious damage to other teeth, bone, and gum tissue. When they don’t have enough room to properly grow or come in at an angle, they can push other teeth out of alignment and damage adjacent molars. Wisdom teeth also can create sinus pressure, pain, headaches, and jaw pain. Our dentists sometimes recommend wisdom teeth removal at a younger age, which helps adolescents and young adults avoid some or all of these problems.
Symptoms Of Problems With Wisdom Teeth
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign that your wisdom teeth need to be extracted:
- Jaw pain
- Infection of soft tissue behind the rear molars
- Cysts or tumors
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Damage to other teeth
- Shifting or misaligned teeth
Redness, tenderness, bleeding, and swelling of the gums in the area could be indications that your wisdom teeth are impacted and should be removed. Bad breath, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, and a painful or swollen jaw also are signs of infection, so if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Your Health And Comfort Are Our Top Priorities
Depending on your specific needs and circumstances, you may need only local anesthesia to minimize discomfort during wisdom teeth extraction. Sometimes, sedation may be recommended if a case is more complex or the patient experiences dental anxiety. The removal procedure typically takes less than an hour and you should feel better within a few days. It’s important to carefully follow any aftercare instructions you receive from your oral surgeon.
We understand that making these decisions can be daunting. Our dentists at Sikora Family Dentistry help you understand your condition and recommend only trusted oral surgeons we know will take excellent care of our patients. If you have any questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth or other oral health issues, our caring team of dental professionals is here for you.
Contact Us To Schedule An Appointment
Whether you need a routine checkup or believe your child needs to see a dentist about wisdom teeth removal, our patient-focused dental practice provides quality care for patients of all ages. Conveniently located in North Olmsted, OH, Sikora Family Dentistry serves families in the Cleveland metro area, including Fairview Park, Olmsted Falls, Rocky River, and Westlake. To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call our office at 440-779-8730.