Extractions

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth often develop problems that require their removal. When the jaw isn't large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth, they can become impacted (unable to come in or misaligned). Wisdom teeth may grow sideways, emerge only part way from the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone.

Extraction of wisdom teeth is generally recommended when:

• Wisdom teeth only partially erupt. This leaves an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection. Pain, swelling, jaw stiffness and general illness can result.
• There is a chance that poorly aligned wisdom teeth will damage adjacent teeth.
• A cyst (fluid-filled sac) forms, destroying surrounding structures such as bone or tooth roots.

Do not smoke, drink through a straw or rinse your mouth vigorously for 24 hours. In doing so, you may displace the clot, which could deter the healing process.

Brush and floss your other teeth as normal. However, avoid brushing the tooth next to the extraction site. Gently rinse you mouth for the first few days, as needed. In the event of pain or inflammation, apply an ice bag or cold compress.

Contact your local Gentle Dental location if you are experiencing pain or discomfort around your wisdom teeth. Wisdom Teeth extraction is done in office by one of our oral surgeons.