Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Dentist West Linn, OR

Wisdom tooth removal is usually a topic that frequently occurs during the late teens or early twenties. This procedure removes the four permanent molars at the far corners of the mouth, which often cause dental problems when they fail to grow erupt properly, or become impacted. If you want to maintain good oral health and prevent discomfort, infection, and other dental complications, ZenTech Dentistry can recommend extraction. While there are many reasons behind wisdom tooth extraction, consulting a dental practitioner is vital to determine if it is the best course of action. We can help you understand the importance and implications of wisdom tooth removal to make informed decisions about your oral health.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last molars to emerge. They usually appear in late adolescence or early adulthood, between the ages of 17 and 25. As mentioned, wisdom teeth are at the back of the mouth, one in each of the four corners. These final sets of molars complete the adult dentition. However, they often become problematic for most people due to a smaller jaw. This leads to insufficient space for growth, causing various issues like impacted wisdom teeth, pain, and infection. Schedule a professional extraction if you experience discomfort because of your wisdom teeth.

Why Do I Need my Wisdom Tooth Extracted?

There are several reasons why a dental practitioner would recommend wisdom teeth extraction. The most common reason is insufficient space for the wisdom teeth to grow properly. While this may not raise concerns initially, it can cause impacted wisdom teeth, pain, swelling, and infection. In addition, wisdom teeth can grow at awkward angles or erupt partially, making them difficult to clean, which increases the risk of dental issues such as cavities and gum disease. They can also impact any current orthodontic work being done. Your dentist may recommend wisdom teeth extraction as a prevention measure, ensuring the long-term health and well-being of your entire oral cavity.

The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure

Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common dental procedures for addressing various issues related to the growth and positioning of wisdom teeth. This dental intervention alleviates pain, prevents complications, and promotes oral health. Here, we will look into the vital aspects of a wisdom tooth extraction procedure.

Preparing for the Extraction

Before the wisdom tooth extraction procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will conduct a comprehensive examination, including X-rays, to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. This evaluation helps to determine the best course of action based on your dental needs. Extraction might be ideal if you have misaligned, painful, or impacted wisdom teeth.

Local Anesthesia and Sedation Options

Wisdom tooth extraction is an invasive procedure that requires local anesthesia to ensure a painless experience. Once the affected area is numb, the dentist will start the extraction process. Sometimes, sedation options, such as nitrous oxide, intravenous (IV) sedation, or oral sedatives, may be offered to help you relax and reduce anxiety. We can choose anesthesia and sedation options depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level.

The Extraction Process

During extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue covering the wisdom tooth for better access. If the tooth is impacted, your dentist may section it into smaller pieces for easier removal. The dental practitioner will carefully extract the wisdom tooth from its socket in the jawbone, causing some pressure and minor discomfort. Luckily, it should not be painful because of the anesthesia.

Post-Extraction Care and Recovery

After extracting the wisdom tooth successfully, the surgical site is sutured, and gauze is placed to control bleeding. Expect post-operative instructions from your dentist, including guidelines for pain management, swelling reduction, and oral hygiene. It is essential to follow these instructions diligently to ensure proper healing and minimal downtime.

FAQs About Wisdom Tooth Extraction

When most people are scheduled for wisdom teeth extraction, they often have questions and concerns. Our experts have compiled common patient inquiries and responses to help you understand the process and what to expect.

How Long Does the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure Take?

The duration of a wisdom tooth extraction procedure varies depending on factors such as the position of the tooth, complexity, and overall health. Generally, a fully erupted wisdom tooth extraction can take between 20 to 30 minutes. However, if you have impacted wisdom teeth, the procedure may take up to an hour or more. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific case during the initial consultation.

Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Painful?

During the wisdom tooth extraction, you should not experience pain because your dentist or oral surgeon will administer local anesthesia. This ensures a painless and anxiety-free process. Dental practitioners often recommend sedation to help patients relax. It is common to feel some pressure and minor discomfort during the procedure, but if you experience pain, tell your dentist to increase anesthesia or recommend a viable alternative. Expect mild post-operative discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as your dental professional advises.

Will I Be Able to Drive Home After the Procedure?

Whether you can drive home after a wisdom tooth extraction depends on the type of anesthesia or sedation used. If you received local anesthesia and feel comfortable and alert after the extraction, you can drive yourself home. However, if sedation was administered, especially intravenous (IV) sedation, you must arrange for someone to drive you home. Consult your dentist or oral surgeon for guidance regarding transportation and recovery.

How Soon Can I Resume Normal Activities After the Extraction?

Recovery varies from person to person, but most people resume their normal activities within a few days to a week. Ensure you follow the post-operative instructions provided by your dental professional. You may experience swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding, but severe pain and excessive bleeding prompt an emergency visit to your dentist. In addition, avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise for the first few days. Your dentist or oral surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and guide you on the best time to resume your routine.

Wisdom tooth removal is vital in alleviating pain, preventing complications, and promoting oral health. Whether misaligned or impacted wisdom teeth, ZenTech Dentistry can restore comfort and oral function through safe and precise extraction. Contact us at (503) 765-9699 and schedule a consultation with our experts.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Dentist West Linn, OR