How will I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
If we are concerned about your wisdom teeth, we will take an x-ray to examine their position during your regular checkup.
Depending on your age, the position of the teeth and whether or not your mouth can accommodate them, we may recommend waiting to observe how they progress or proceed with treatment.
Are there any risks involved in extracting wisdom teeth?
Wisdom tooth removal is considered a very safe procedure. As with any surgical operation, there is always a risk of complication, particularly infection. However, you can minimize any risk by carefully following the post-operative instructions.
We offer dental sedation for patients who experience anxiety or fear. As always, our team will be pleased to discuss your concerns with you at any time.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth?
If a wisdom tooth is impacted, it is growing into your mouth sideways instead of straight up. If an impacted wisdom tooth is not removed at the ideal time, it can cause damage to the teeth next to it and potentially significant pain.
What are some other reasons that my wisdom teeth may need to be removed?
Your wisdom teeth may be impacted, misaligned and poking or rubbing on your cheeks or tongue, causing irritation.
If there is not enough room for them in your mouth, the wisdom teeth can cause crowding and shifting among the rest of your teeth. They can also be very difficult to keep clean because they are so far back in your mouth and may develop decay.
What will I need to do after my wisdom teeth are removed?
During your wisdom tooth extraction appointment, we will explain how to care for your mouth after the extraction. By following some steps, you can prevent any post-procedural problems. Typical instructions include biting on gauze to keep pressure on the extraction point following surgery, regular application of ice to the area, and eating soft foods for several days.
What types of foods can I eat following the procedure?
After your procedure, you should eat only soft foods for a couple of days. Some foods we often recommend post-extraction include ice cream, pudding, soups, applesauce, and smoothies. As you heal, you can add solid foods back into your diet.